Inspired by Song

"Inspired by Song" is a captivating chamber music album released by Stefan Temmingh in 2014 under the label Deutsche Harmonia Mundi. Collaborating with soprano Dorothee Mields and his ensemble The Gentleman's Band, Temmingh presents a collection of 18 tracks that span a total duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes. The album is a rich tapestry of Baroque styles, featuring both instrumental and vocal pieces that showcase the depth and versatility of the genre.

The tracklist is a blend of traditional and composed works, including well-known pieces like "Greensleeves" and "Dido's Lament" from Henry Purcell's opera "Dido and Aeneas," as well as lesser-known gems like "Engels Nachtegaeltje" and "Doen Daphne d'over schoone Maeght." The album opens with "John Come Kiss Me Now," a traditional piece performed with a delicate touch, and closes with the hauntingly beautiful "Dido's Lament," sung by Dorothee Mields.

Stefan Temmingh's expertise as a lute player and his adventurous approach to concept and performance shine through in this album. The interplay between the vocal and instrumental tracks creates a dynamic listening experience, highlighting the emotional range and technical skill of both the performers and the compositions. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the Baroque genre, "Inspired by Song" offers a compelling journey through the timeless beauty of this musical era.