What is it that makes this 1992 recording of François Couperin's Les Nations by the Kuijken Ensemble so special? In a word, brotherhood. You see, the Kuijken Ensemble has the brothers Barthold, Sigiswald, and Wieland on transverse flute, violin, and viola da gamba and they play together with a combination of affection, aggression, appreciation, and wholehearted love that makes the ensemble like no other. Each brother a master of his instrument, and they understand Baroque music with a combination of intellect, emotion, and musicality that few other period instrument players can match.

Give each instrument what suits it best, thus is the player content and you well entertained.’ In these pieces, unenticingly called ‘Methodical Sonatas’, Telemann is as good as his word. These are delightful works, full of humour, very skilfully written and never dull. There are two sets of six sonatas each. All are played on a Baroque flute, though certain keys suggest a violin, with fluency and impeccable taste by Barthold Kuijken. His tone is alluring and his ornamentation, mainly based on Telemann’s own suggestions, faultlessly executed. A programme for performers and listeners alike. Outstanding.