Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Henry Purcell's Baroque masterpieces with this exquisite collection, expertly conducted by the renowned John Eliot Gardiner. Released on February 4, 2022, via Warner Classics, this album is a celebration of Purcell's unparalleled genius, featuring 32 tracks that span a rich tapestry of instrumental airs and dances from some of his most beloved works.
From the enchanting overtures and airs of "King Arthur" to the regal pomp of "The Indian Queen," and the haunting beauty of "Dido and Aeneas," this album offers a comprehensive journey through Purcell's musical legacy. Each piece is performed with meticulous attention to detail, bringing the composer's vision to life with clarity and passion.
The album opens with the stirring "Overture" from "King Arthur," setting the stage for a captivating exploration of Purcell's compositions. Highlights include the delicate "Air" from the same work, the lively "Hornpipe" from "Dioclesian," and the majestic "Trumpet Tune" from "The Indian Queen." The collection also features lesser-known gems, such as the "March and Canzona for Queen Mary's Funeral" and the "Ode to St. Cecilia," showcasing the breadth and depth of Purcell's musical output.
John Eliot Gardiner, a leading figure in the world of Baroque music, leads the English Baroque Soloists and the Monteverdi Choir with his signature precision and artistry. His deep understanding of Purcell's style ensures that every note is imbued with authenticity and grace.
Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer eager to explore its rich heritage, this album is an essential addition to your collection. With a total duration of 66 minutes, it offers a compact yet comprehensive overview of Purcell's genius, conducted by one of the most respected figures in the field.
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628: OvertureHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628: AirHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628: Overture (Reprise)Henry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628, Act 2: Second Act Tune. AirHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628, Act 3: Third Act Tune. HornpipeHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628, Act 4: Fourth Act Tune. AirHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628, Act 5: SymphonyHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628, Act 5: ChaconneHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Come Ye Sons of Art, Z. 323 "Ode for Queen Mary's Birthday": No. 1, SymphonyHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, Equale Brass Ensemble, Monteverdi Orchestra
Purcell: March and Canzona for Queen Mary's Funeral, Z. 860: MarchHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, Equale Brass Ensemble, Monteverdi Orchestra
Purcell: March and Canzona for Queen Mary's Funeral, Z. 860: CanzonaHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, Equale Brass Ensemble, Monteverdi Orchestra
Purcell: Hail! Bright Cecilia, Z. 328 "Ode to St Cecilia": SymphonyHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Timon of Athens, Z. 632: OvertureHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Timon of Athens, Z. 632: Curtain Tune on a GroundHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627: First MusicHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627: Second MusicHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627: OvertureHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act 1: First Act Tune. HornpipeHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act 2: Dance of FuriesHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act 2: Second Act TuneHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act 3: The Chair DanceHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act 3: Third Act TuneHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act 4: Butterfly DanceHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: First Music. Air IHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: First Music. Air IIHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: Second Music. Hornpipe IHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: Second Music. Hornpipe IIHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: Overture. AdagioHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: Overture. AllegroHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: Trumpet TuneHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: Prologue. Trumpet TuneHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, English Baroque Soloists
Purcell: The Tempest, Z. 631: OvertureHenry Purcell, John Eliot Gardiner, Monteverdi Orchestra