Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Baroque music with Henry Purcell's "Purcell: Suites for Harpsichord," a captivating collection of eight suites performed by the renowned harpsichordist Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska. Released on April 20, 2018, under the DUX label, this album is a testament to Purcell's mastery of the harpsichord and his enduring influence on classical music.
Spanning 54 minutes, the album features 29 tracks that showcase Purcell's intricate compositions, each suite meticulously crafted to highlight the harpsichord's unique timbre and expressive range. From the lively Préludes to the graceful Sarabands and the spirited Hornpipes, every piece is a journey through the rich tapestry of Baroque dance and musical forms.
The suites, identified by their respective keys and catalog numbers (Z.660 to Z.669), offer a comprehensive exploration of Purcell's pedagogical and artistic genius. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album provides an enriching experience, showcasing the depth and beauty of Purcell's harpsichord suites.
Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska's performance brings a fresh perspective to these historic pieces, blending technical precision with a deep understanding of the music's historical context. Her interpretation ensures that each note resonates with the authenticity and charm of the Baroque era, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music collection.
2018 DUX2018 DUX
Tracks
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: I. PréludeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: III. CorantHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 1 in G Major, Z. 660: IV. MinuetHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 2 in G Minor, Z. 661: I. PréludeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 2 in G Minor, Z. 661: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 2 in G Minor, Z. 661: III. CorantHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 2 in G Minor, Z. 661: IV. SarabandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 3 in G Major, Z. 662: I. PréludeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 3 in G Major, Z. 662: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 3 in G Major, Z. 662: III. CouranteHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 4 in A Minor, Z. 663: I. PréludeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 4 in A Minor, Z. 663: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 4 in A Minor, Z. 663: III. CorantHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 4 in A Minor, Z. 663: IV. SarabandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 5 in C Major, Z. 666: I. PréludeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 5 in C Major, Z. 666: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 5 in C Major, Z. 666: III. CorantHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 5 in C Major, Z. 666: IV. SarabandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 6 in D Major, Z. 667: I. PréludeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 6 in D Major, Z. 667: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 6 in D Major, Z. 667: III. HornpipeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 7 in D Minor, Z. 668: I. Almand Bell-barrHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 7 in D Minor, Z. 668: II. CorantHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 7 in D Minor, Z. 668: III. HornpipeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 8 in F Major, Z. 669: I. PréludeHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 8 in F Major, Z. 669: II. AlmandHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 8 in F Major, Z. 669: III. CouranteHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
A Choice Collection of Lessons, Suite No. 8 in F Major, Z. 669: IV. MinuetHenry Purcell, Ewa Rzetecka-Niewiadomska
Henry Purcell, born in 1659 in Westminster, London, is celebrated as England's greatest composer of the Baroque era. Despite his tragically short life, ending at the age of 36 in 1695, Purcell's prolific output and innovative spirit have left an indelible mark on classical music. Known for his over 100 enchanting songs, the heart-wrenching opera "Dido and Aeneas," and his magical incidental music for "The Fairy Queen," a adaptation of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Purcell's compositions continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His profound influence earned him the title "Orpheus Britannicus" and solidified his status as a pioneer of English music from the Restoration period until the early 20th century. Purcell's musical genius transcends time, making his works essential listening for any classical music enthusiast.
Vinylscout
Henry Purcell
