Abel: The Drexel Manuscript

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque music with "Abel: The Drexel Manuscript," a captivating album featuring the exquisite compositions of Carl Friedrich Abel. This stunning collection, released on June 24, 2016, under the Accent label, showcases 29 intricate pieces for the viola da gamba, each meticulously performed by the talented Petr Wagner.

Carl Friedrich Abel, a contemporary of Johann Christian Bach, was renowned for his mastery of the viola da gamba, an instrument that he helped popularize in the 18th century. Despite his fame during his lifetime, Abel's music has often been overshadowed by his more famous contemporaries. This album offers a rare opportunity to rediscover the beauty and complexity of Abel's compositions, which are brought to life with remarkable skill and sensitivity by Petr Wagner.

"The Drexel Manuscript" spans a diverse range of moods and styles, from lively allegros and spirited minuets to contemplative adagios and intricate fugues. Each piece is a testament to Abel's compositional genius and his deep understanding of the viola da gamba's expressive capabilities. The album's duration of just over an hour and seventeen minutes makes it an ideal choice for both casual listening and in-depth exploration.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Abel: The Drexel Manuscript" promises a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's high-quality production and Wagner's impeccable performance ensure that every nuance of Abel's music is captured and conveyed with clarity and precision. Dive into the timeless elegance of Baroque music with this exceptional album, and discover the enduring appeal of Carl Friedrich Abel's compositions.

June 24, 2016

2016 Accent

About Carl Friedrich Abel

Carl Friedrich Abel, born in 1723 in Köthen, Germany, was a virtuoso of the viola da gamba and a prominent composer of the pre-Classical era. Renowned for his exceptional skill on the viola da gamba, Abel left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of his time. He began his career as the director of music at the Dresden court in 1743, where he honed his craft and gained recognition. In 1759, Abel moved to London, becoming a chamber musician to Queen Charlotte in 1764. His collaboration with Johann Christian Bach in founding a subscription concert series further cemented his legacy. Abel's compositions, totaling 420 works, are characterized by their focus on chamber music, showcasing his mastery of symphonies, concertos, sonatas, trios, and quartets. His contributions to the viola da gamba repertoire are particularly noteworthy, making him one of the last great virtuosos of the instrument. Abel's music continues to captivate audiences with its elegance and innovation, reflecting his unique artistic vision.