Immerse yourself in the rich, baroque world of Johann Kuhnau with this comprehensive collection of his keyboard works, meticulously performed by John Butt. This two-disc set, released in 1992 by Harmonia Mundi, offers an extensive exploration of Kuhnau's compositions, showcasing his mastery of the harpsichord and clavichord.
The album is divided into two main sections: "Frische Clavier-Früchte" (Fresh Keyboard Fruits) and "The Biblical Sonatas." The former features seven sonatas, each comprising multiple movements that range from lively allegros to contemplative adagios. These sonatas demonstrate Kuhnau's skill in crafting intricate, engaging pieces that highlight the expressive capabilities of the keyboard instruments of his time.
The latter section, "The Biblical Sonatas," is a series of programmatic works inspired by biblical narratives. Each sonata tells a story through music, with movements titled to reflect the events and characters from the Bible. For example, "The Combat between David and Goliath" and "The melancholy of Saul assuaged by means of music" offer vivid musical depictions of these biblical tales, providing a unique blend of spiritual and musical experiences.
Johann Kuhnau, a German polymath known for his diverse talents, left behind a wealth of compositions that have been somewhat overshadowed by his more famous contemporaries. This album serves as a testament to his enduring musical legacy, offering a rare opportunity to delve into his keyboard works in their entirety. With a total duration of over two hours, this collection is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of baroque music and those eager to discover the lesser-known gems of the period.
John Butt's performance on the harpsichord and clavichord is praised for its precision and expressive depth, making this recording a valuable addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a seasoned fan of baroque music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
1992 harmonia mundi usa1992 harmonia mundi usa
Tracks
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 1: I. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 1: II. AdagioJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 1: III. AllegroJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 1: IV. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 2: I. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 2: II. Molto adagioJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.2: III. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 2: IV. AdagioJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 2: V. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 3: I. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.3: II. AriaJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.3: III. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits: Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.3: IV. AriaJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 3: V. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.4: I. VivaceJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.4: II. AdagioJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No. 4: III. [No tempo indication]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.4: IV.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.5: I.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.5: II.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.5: III.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.5: IV.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.6: I. CiacconaJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.6: V. Ciaccona da capoJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.7: I.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.7: II. AdagioJohann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.7: III.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Fresh Keyboard Fruits, Sonata No.7: IV.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": I. The boasting of Goliath.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": II. The trembling of the Israelites...Their prayer to God.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": III. The courage of David...The confidence that he puts in the help of God.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": IV. The combat between the two and their struggle; the stone is thrown...Goliath falls.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": V. The flight of the Philistines, who are pursued and slain by the Israelites.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": VI. The joy of the Israelites over their victory.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": VII. Musical Concert of the Women in honor of David.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.1, "The Combat between David and Goliath": VIII. The general Rejoicing, and the dances of joy of the People.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.2, "The melancholy of Saul assuaged by means of music": I. The sadness and the rage of the King.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.2, "The melancholy of Saul assuaged by means of music": II. [No title]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.2, "The melancholy of Saul assuaged by means of music": III. The restorative Song of David's harp.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.2, "The melancholy of Saul assuaged by means of music": IV. The calm and contented soul of Saul.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.3, "The Wedding of Jacob": I. The joy of the family of Laban at the arrival of their kinsman Jacob.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.3, "The Wedding of Jacob": II. The servitude of Jacob is indeed laborious, but it is lightened by his love for Rachel....Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.3, "The Wedding of Jacob": III. The bridal song sung by the Companions of Rachel.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.3, "The Wedding of Jacob": IV. The rejoicing for the wedding, and the Congratulations.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.3, "The Wedding of Jacob": V. The deception of Laban.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas: The Biblical Sonatas, No.3, "The Wedding of Jacob": VI. [No title]Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
The Biblical Sonatas, No.3, "The Wedding of Jacob": VII. The bridegroom content; his heart foretells him some ill; he takes heart again...The displeasure of Jacob at being deceived.Johann Kuhnau, John Butt
Johann Kuhnau was a remarkable German polymath whose legacy endures primarily through his compositions, though his talents extended far beyond music. As the Thomaskantor in Leipzig for 21 years, Kuhnau wore many hats—novelist, translator, lawyer, and music theorist—all while creating a rich tapestry of choral works. Today, he is best remembered for his Biblical Sonatas, a collection of programmatic keyboard sonatas published in 1700. Each sonata vividly depicts a specific biblical story, showcasing Kuhnau's unique ability to blend narrative and music. His tenure at Leipzig was followed by the illustrious Johann Sebastian Bach, cementing his place in musical history. Despite the loss of many of his larger vocal works, Kuhnau's innovative approach to musical storytelling continues to captivate audiences and inspire musicians.
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Johann Kuhnau
