By contrast, the music by Italian composers which takes up the second side of the record, is more successful. The Sinfonia a Ire, per il Santissimo Natale by Giuseppe Valentini, is an attractive piece. He was a contemporary of Bach and Handel and this sinfonia comes from his Op. 1, published in 1701. Like the Christmas Concertos of Corelli and many other Italians, too, this one makes extensive use of the traditional piffero melodies and siciliano rhythm associated with the shepherds of the Roman countryside. Valentini's handling of the material is engaging though I longed for more subtlety in this all-too-bland playing. Best known amongst the pieces assembled here is the Concerto, per il Santo Natale, Op. 8 No. 6 by Torelli. By contrast with the Valentini the 'pastorale' music is treated with a robust fervour and a brisk tempo complying with Torelli's Vivace markings. I remember when I first heard this music on a record borrowed from a public library, when I was at school, the sleeve-note observed that the music provided no problems for the listener!

Finally, comes a Sinfonia pastorale by Gaetano Maria Schiassi, a Bolognese composer born in 1698. It's an exuberant piece which brings out the best in the band. To sum up, whilst I cannot be enthusiastic about the pedestrian performances, especially of the Telemann and Purcell, I can wholeheartedly recommend the repertoire. It has been carefully chosen and the works by Valentini and Schiassi are worth hearing. Good pressings and good presentation.

-- Gramophone [11/1982]
reviewing the original LP release