Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, October 28, 1958

During this time I bought a new record, a concerto for two flutes by Cimarrosa [sic] plus music by Paisiano, and Scarlatti—the first one is one of the gayest happiest pieces we ever heard—It did much to relieve the agony of this period. This record led to getting an oboe concerto by Cimarosa, plus music by Tartini, and Lully, just as beautiful as the other. All this music is played by the Scarlatti orchestra on Angel records, and the performance and recording matched the music. Fearful that we might “wear” this music “out” by continuous playing, I ordered more records from the same period. During this time I received a sample copy of a new little art magazine “The Art Times.” In an essay on the revival of interest in early Italian music,—the author (Philip Bisaccio) raved about a concerto for two cellos by Vivaldi. Played by the Virtuoso [sic] di Roma—I included it in my order. So far it alone has come through, and we have been playing it daily since. Four concertos on one record, all magnificent, but the concerto for two cellos is one of the rarest experiences we have ever had in music. A miraculous work, wonderfully played.

Thank God that I have lived long enough to get to know the playing of such a group as the “Virtuosi de Roma.”

Charles E. Burchfield, September 20-October 28, 1958