Frescobaldi: Toccatas et danses

Album Description

Dive into the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Girolamo Frescobaldi's "Toccatas et danses," a meticulously curated collection of his most captivating compositions. This album, released on August 2, 2024, by Warner Classics, offers an immersive journey through the masterful works of one of the era's most influential composers.

Spanning over an hour and ten minutes, this album features 38 tracks that showcase Frescobaldi's virtuosity and innovation. From the intricate "Toccatas" to the lively "Dances," each piece is a testament to the composer's genius. The album includes selections from Frescobaldi's "Il primo libro di toccate d'intavolatura di cimbalo" and "Il secondo libro di toccate," providing a comprehensive overview of his stylistic evolution.

Frescobaldi, born in 1583, is renowned for his contributions to keyboard music, and this album highlights his ability to blend technical prowess with expressive depth. The "Partite sopra l'aria della Romanesca" and the "Corrente" series are particularly noteworthy, offering a blend of complexity and accessibility that will captivate both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to Baroque music.

Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking to explore the rich heritage of the Baroque period, "Toccatas et danses" is a treasure trove of timeless compositions. This album is a celebration of Girolamo Frescobaldi's enduring legacy, offering a glimpse into the musical genius that has inspired generations of musicians.

August 2, 2024

A Warner Classics/Erato release, ℗ 2024 Warner Music France

About Girolamo Frescobaldi

Girolamo Alessandro Frescobaldi, born in the Duchy of Ferrara in 1583, was a virtuoso keyboard player and one of the most influential composers of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. A child prodigy, Frescobaldi studied under the renowned Luzzasco Luzzaschi and was inspired by several notable composers of his time. His career reached great heights when he was appointed as the organist of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, a position he held intermittently from 1608 until his death in 1643. Frescobaldi's compositions for harpsichord and organ are celebrated for their technical brilliance and emotional depth, making him a pivotal figure in the development of keyboard music. His work not only defined the Italian Baroque style but also had a profound impact on the German Baroque school, solidifying his legacy as one of the first great masters of organ composition.