Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Baroque music with Olivier Baumont's "Harpsichord Suites," a captivating collection released on October 2, 2021, under Warner Music Group and X5 Music Group. This album is a testament to Baumont's virtuosity and deep understanding of the harpsichord, featuring 26 meticulously crafted tracks that span a total of 63 minutes.
The album showcases a selection of harpsichord suites by two of the most renowned composers of the Baroque era: George Frideric Handel and Henry Purcell. Baumont's interpretations bring a fresh perspective to these classic works, highlighting the intricate beauty and technical brilliance of each piece. From the lively and energetic preludes to the graceful and measured dances, such as the allemande, courante, sarabande, and gigue, each track offers a unique glimpse into the musical landscape of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Highlights of the album include Handel's Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in A Major, HWV 426, with its lively prelude and elegant allemande, as well as the intricate variations of the "Chaconne" from Suite No. 2 in G Major, HWV 435. Purcell's contributions, such as the Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660, and the lively Hornpipe from Suite No. 6 in D Major, Z. 667, add a touch of English charm and innovation to the collection.
Olivier Baumont's "Harpsichord Suites" is not just a compilation of beautiful music; it is a celebration of the harpsichord's rich history and enduring appeal. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience. The high-quality 16-Bit/44.1 kHz recording ensures that every nuance of Baumont's performance is captured, providing an immersive and authentic experience of Baroque harpsichord music.
2021 Warner Music Group - X5 Music Group2021 Warner Music Group - X5 Music Group
Tracks
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in A Major, HWV 426: I. PreludeGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in A Major, HWV 426: II. AllemandeGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in A Major, HWV 426: III. CouranteGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in A Major, HWV 426: IV. GigueGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 2 in G Major, HWV 435 "Chaconne": I. Theme - Variations 1-8George Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 2 in G Major, HWV 435 "Chaconne": II. Variations 9-16George Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 2 in G Major, HWV 435 "Chaconne": III. Variations 17-20George Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 4 in D Minor, HWV 437: I. PreludeGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 4 in D Minor, HWV 437: II. AllmandGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 4 in D Minor, HWV 437: III. CorrantGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 4 in D Minor, HWV 437: IV. SarabandeGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 4 in D Minor, HWV 437: V. JiggGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 5 in E Minor, HWV 438: I. AllmandGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 5 in E Minor, HWV 438: II. SarabandGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 5 in E Minor, HWV 438: III. JiggGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 6 in G Minor, HWV 439: I. PreludeGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 6 in G Minor, HWV 439: II. AllmandGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 6 in G Minor, HWV 439: III. CorrantGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 6 in G Minor, HWV 439: IV. JiggGeorge Frideric Handel, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: I. PreludeHenry Purcell, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: III. CorantHenry Purcell, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: IV. SarabandHenry Purcell, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 6 in D Major, Z. 667: I. PreludeHenry Purcell, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 6 in D Major, Z. 667: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Olivier Baumont
Harpsichord Suite No. 6 in D Major, Z. 667: III. HornpipeHenry Purcell, Olivier Baumont
Olivier Baumont is a renowned French harpsichordist celebrated for his elegant performances and deep scholarly insights, particularly in the realm of French Baroque music. Born on August 15, 1960, in Saint-Dié, Baumont has carved out a distinguished career as both a performer and an academic, earning him a place as a professor at the Conservatoire national supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris. His discography is rich with notable works, including "Harpsichord Suites 1720 & 1733" and "Un clavecin pour Marcel," which showcase his mastery of the harpsichord. Beyond his musical prowess, Baumont is also an accomplished author, with a collection of books that delve into the lives and works of famous composers, making him a multifaceted figure in the world of classical music.
Vinylscout
Olivier Baumont
