Little is known about the life of violinist Pietro Antonio Locatelli, but history has not failed us in the account of Locatelli’s work, published as a magnum opus known as “L’arte del Violino.” These 24 Capricci were included therein, though only as optional additions to the 12 concertos comprising the bulk of the collection. Showpieces in their own right, they rank among the most difficult music of their day – comparable even to Paganini’s capricci. Stellar interpretation by violinist Emmanuelle Baldini makes this recording a fascinating addition to any early music catalog.