Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of George Frideric Handel's compositions, masterfully interpreted by the renowned pianist Anne Queffélec. Released in 2006 under the Mirare label, "Anne Queffélec Plays Handel" is a captivating journey through the baroque master's piano suites and minuets, spanning a rich tapestry of musical genres including classical, choral, and opera.
This exquisite collection features 23 tracks, meticulously curated to showcase Handel's genius and Queffélec's virtuosity. The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Passacaille" from the Suite for Piano No. 7 in G Minor, HWV 432, setting the stage for a mesmerizing exploration of Handel's works. Each suite is a testament to the composer's intricate craftsmanship, with movements ranging from the stately "Prélude" to the lively "Gigue," and the graceful "Sarabande."
Queffélec's performance is nothing short of breathtaking, her fingers dancing across the keys with a precision and passion that brings Handel's compositions to life. Her interpretation of the "Chaconne" in G Major, HWV 435, is particularly noteworthy, showcasing her ability to convey the depth and complexity of Handel's music.
The album also includes the enchanting "Minuet in G Minor, HWV 434 No. 4," arranged by Kempff, adding a delightful contrast to the more structured suites. Queffélec's rendition of this piece is a testament to her versatility and musical insight.
Critics have hailed "Anne Queffélec Plays Handel" as the best recording of Handel on the piano, praising Queffélec's ability to breathe new life into these timeless works. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, it offers a perfect blend of elegance, sophistication, and musical brilliance that will leave you enchanted.
2006 Mirare2006 Mirare
Tracks
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 7 in G Minor, HWV 432: VI. PassacailleGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 6 in F-Sharp Minor, HWV 431: I. PréludeGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 6 in F-Sharp Minor, HWV 431: II. LargoGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 6 in F-Sharp Minor, HWV 431: III. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 6 in F-Sharp Minor, HWV 431: IV. Gigue (Presto)George Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 3 in D Minor, HWV 436: I. AllemandeGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 3 in D Minor, HWV 436: II. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 3 in D Minor, HWV 436: III. AirGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 3 in D Minor, HWV 436: IV. GigueGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 3 in D Minor, HWV 436: V. MenuettoGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 3 in D Minor, HWV 428: I. Prélude - II. PrestoGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, 2eme Cahier, Chaconne in G Major, HWV 435: III. ChaconneGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 7 in G Minor, HWV 432: IV. SarabandeGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 5 in E Major, HWV 430: I. PréludeGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 5 in E Major, HWV 430: II. AllemandeGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, Suite for Piano No. 5 in E Major, HWV 430: III. CouranteGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, 1er Cahier, Suite No. 5 in E Major: IV. Air VariéGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, 1er Cahier, Suite No. 8 in F Minor, HWV 433: I. PréludeGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, 1er Cahier, Suite No. 8 in F Minor, HWV 433: II. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, 1er Cahier, Suite No. 8 in F Minor, HWV 433: III. AllemandeGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, 1er Cahier, Suite No. 8 in F Minor, HWV 433: IV. CouranteGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
8 Great Suites, 1er Cahier, Suite No. 8 in F Minor, HWV 433: V. GigueGeorge Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec
Minuet in G Minor, HWV 434 No. 4 (Arr. Kempff)George Frideric Handel, Anne Queffélec