When Trios For 4 was first released the Palladian Ensemble was riding high following a sell-out 'Rising Stars' concert series in Europe with performances at the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Konzerthaus Wien, Frankfurt Alte Oper, and London's South Bank Centre. Together Rachel Podger, Pamela Thorby, Susanne Heinrich and William Carter formed a quartet of the highest calibre; confirmed by the solo successes each went on to enjoy in their respective careers. In a cleverly chosen programme the Palladian Ensemble perform works by Handel, Telemann, Leclair and Quantz which perfectly demonstrate the diversity of styles typical of the eighteenth century. The works have been uniquely adapted to suit the Palladian Ensemble's scoring of recorder, violin, viola da gamba and guitar / archlute. This joyful recording is full of Palladian Ensemble characteristics - namely their ability to present baroque chamber music infused with style, uninhibited virtuosity and intelligent musicianship. Originally released in 1997, Trios For 4 has been re-issued as part of Linn's ECHO series which offers a second chance to enjoy the best of the label's award-winning catalogue. In a career spanning more than fifteen years, the Palladian Ensemble was renowned on the international stage with a reputation synonymous with excellence in baroque performance. Constant critical acclaim, a reputation for stylish playing full of verve and vitality alongside a warm, spontaneous on-stage manner led this virtuoso ensemble to give numerous concert performances. The Palladian Ensemble won the prestigious Diapason d'Or Award on five occasions, (1993, 1994, 1998, 1999 and 2000) and has twice had albums named Gramophone 'Critics' Choice'. Gramophone also described the Palladian Ensemble as 'one of the best chamber ensembles currently in business.'