This is one of Vivaldi's more often-encountered cello concertos, which is not to say it is popular, but that it is at least far from neglected. Like his other cello concertos, it is cast in three movements, with two Allegros framing a brief Largo. The Allegro molto first movement does much to dispel the misbegotten notion that the composer routinely wrote the same concerto many times. It opens with an orchestral ritornello rife with tension and drama in its rhythmic main theme and fateful sense. The cello enters, imparting a feeling of anxiety in its energetic intensity and searching manner. The whole movement brims with vigor and bounce, with moments of repose and dark reflection. The ensuing Largo opens with the cello playing a lovely lyrical theme and then holding on to dominate the whole movement. The finale begins with the orchestra stating the lively thematic material, sounding at times serious, at others playful. The cello enters to deliver its colorful account of the themes, showing muscle but also a lighthearted manner of expression. The ensuing exchanges between orchestra and soloist are deftly imagined, if predictable in their alternating character.

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