This cello concerto is not often heard in the concert hall or on recordings. It has received some attention over the years, but largely from artists playing an entire cycle of Vivaldi's cello works. Cast in three movements, it is a worthwhile composition whose melancholy moods and assured writing for the cello, especially in the darkly atmospheric opening panel, argue for greater exposure. The first movement, marked Allegro non molto (Andante poco mosso), opens with a stately but mournful theme played by the orchestra. The cello enters dramatically, giving muscle and a sense of animation to the melody but without breaking the dark mood. The exchanges between the soloist and orchestra feature much contrast, the orchestra calm and serene in its sadness, the cello typically more driven and dramatic. The ensuing Adagio, lasting only about two minutes, is also melancholy but with the cello now more songful. The finale, marked Allegro ma non molto, allows in just a few beams of sunshine, its overall manner still serious and dour. Yet the energetic and virtuosic writing for the cello and the elegance of the orchestral part impart a sense of vitality and color to this otherwise sad work.

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