Dive into the enchanting world of Henry Purcell with "Purcell: Songs & Dances," a captivating collection of the renowned Baroque composer's secular works. Released on October 12, 2018, this album showcases the timeless beauty of Purcell's compositions, performed by the talented ensemble Les Musiciens de Saint-Julien, under the direction of François Lazarevitch, and featuring the exquisite vocals of countertenor Tim Mead.
Spanning a diverse range of genres within the classical and choral realms, this album offers a rich tapestry of instrumental dances and songs that highlight Purcell's mastery of both forms. From the lively "Minuet - Hornpipe - Boree" from "Amphitryon" to the serene "O Solitude, My Sweetest Choice," each track is a testament to Purcell's enduring musical genius. The album also includes excerpts from his celebrated works like "King Arthur" and "The Fairy Queen," providing a comprehensive overview of his secular compositions.
Recorded in April 2018 at the Église Protestante Unie du Saint-Esprit in Paris, this album benefits from the acoustics of this historic venue, adding an authentic touch to the performances. With a duration of one hour and six minutes, "Purcell: Songs & Dances" is a delightful journey through the Baroque era, offering listeners a chance to immerse themselves in the elegant and expressive music of Henry Purcell. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2018 Les Musiciens de Saint-Julien & Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France2018 Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France
Tracks
Amphitryon, Z. 572: Minuet - Hornpipe - BoreeHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Come Ye Sons of Art "Birthday Ode for Queen Mary", Z. 323/5: "Strike the Viol, Touch the Lute"Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
O Solitude, My Sweetest Choice, Z. 406Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Pavan in G Minor, Z. 752Henry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Ode for St Cecilia's Day, Z. 339: "Here the Deities Approve"Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
The Old Bachelor, Z. 607: HornpipeHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Love's Goddess Sure Was Blind "Birthday Ode for Queen Mary", Z. 331: May Her Blest Example Chase - Tune "Hey Boys, up Go We: Jig - Suite for Strings in G Major, Z. 770: BorryHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
King Arthur, Z. 628: "Fairest Isle"Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
King Arthur, Z. 628: "What Power Art Thou"Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
The Virtuous Wife, Z. 611: AireHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
"'Twas Within a Furlong of Edinboro' Town" (Scots Song), Z. 605/2Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Amphitryon, Z. 572: Scotch TuneHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
If Ever I More Riches Did Desire, Cantata, Z. 544: "Here Let My Life With as Much Silence Slide"Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Fantazia Upon a Ground, Z. 731Henry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Ode for St Cecilia's Day, Z. 328: "'Tis Nature's Voice"Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
The Married Beau, Z. 603: MarchHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
Timon of Athen, Z. 632: Curtain TuneHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
The Indian Queen, Z. 630 "We the Spirits of the Air": Song TuneHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
The Fairy Queen, Z. 629: "One Charming Night"Henry Purcell, Tim Mead, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch
The Fairy Queen, Z. 629: ChaconneHenry Purcell, Les Musiciens De Saint-Julien, François Lazarevitch