Frescobaldi & Couperin

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Gustav Leonhardt's "Frescobaldi & Couperin," a captivating album released in 2002 on the Alpha Classics label. This exquisite collection features 20 tracks, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, and is a testament to Leonhardt's mastery of the harpsichord.

The album showcases the works of two seminal composers of the Baroque era: Girolamo Frescobaldi and Louis Couperin. Gustav Leonhardt, renowned for his influential interpretations of Baroque music, brings a unique sensitivity and historical accuracy to these performances, recorded at the Chapelle de l'hôpital Notre-Dame de Bon Secours in Paris in February 2002. His treatment of these works has been pivotal in shaping modern Baroque performance practices, moving away from rigid, motoric interpretations to more malleable and expressive renditions.

The album opens with Frescobaldi's "Toccata seconda" and includes a variety of pieces such as canzonas, fantasias, and suites, each demonstrating the composers' distinctive styles and Leonhardt's virtuosic playing. Highlights include the intricate "Suite in D Major" and the haunting "Passacaille in G Minor," as well as the elegant "Pavane en F-Sharp Minor."

Whether you're a seasoned Baroque enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Frescobaldi & Couperin" offers a profound and enriching listening experience. Gustav Leonhardt's meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of the music make this album a standout in his discography and a valuable addition to any classical music collection.

Gustav Maria Leonhardt was a Dutch keyboard virtuoso, conductor, and musicologist, renowned for his pioneering role in the historically informed performance movement. Born in 's-Graveland, Hilversum, Netherlands, Leonhardt dedicated his life to bringing Baroque and early music to life on period instruments, earning him international acclaim. As a harpsichordist and organist, he captivated audiences worldwide with his profound interpretations and technical mastery. Leonhardt's influence extended beyond his performances; he was a dedicated teacher, welcoming over 150 harpsichord students throughout his career, and a prolific recording artist, leaving behind a vast discography that continues to inspire musicians and enthusiasts alike. His legacy as a founder and director of the Leonhardt Consort further cemented his status as a giant in the early music world. Leonhardt's passion and commitment to his craft never waned, as evidenced by his active schedule of performances and travels up until his passing in 2012.