Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Jean-Philippe Rameau's keyboard mastery with the comprehensive collection "Rameau: Pièces de clavecin – Complete Keyboard Suites." Released on November 2, 2014, by Hyperion, this three-disc set spans a generous 2 hours and 8 minutes, offering a deep dive into the baroque composer's solo keyboard works.
This album is a treasure trove of Rameau's compositions, featuring a total of 42 tracks across various suites. The collection includes the Premier livre de pièces de clavecin, Pièces de clavecin (1724), Nouvelles suites de pièces de clavecin, and more, showcasing Rameau's evolution and versatility as a composer. Each suite is a journey through different keys and moods, from the introspective Suite in A Minor to the lively Suite in G Major.
Performances by renowned harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani bring these historical pieces to life with precision and passion. Recorded in the acoustically rich Music Room of Hatchlands Park in Surrey, the album benefits from exceptional sound quality that highlights the nuance and complexity of Rameau's compositions.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this collection offers a rich exploration of Rameau's contributions to the harpsichord repertoire. From the delicate "Les tendres plaintes" to the spirited "La boiteuse," each track is a testament to Rameau's ingenuity and the timeless appeal of his music.
Jean-Philippe Rameau, a titan of French classical music, revolutionized the 18th-century musical landscape with his innovative compositions and groundbreaking theories. Born in Dijon in 1683, Rameau's legacy endures through his masterful operas, harpsichord works, and influential treatises on harmony. Often hailed as the successor to Jean-Baptiste Lully, Rameau's operatic genius transformed French opera, earning him the title of the leading French composer of his time. His prowess extended to the harpsichord, where he stood alongside François Couperin as a virtuoso. Rameau's catalog, categorized by the Rameau Catalogue Thématique, includes a wealth of cantatas, canons, and other musical gems that continue to captivate audiences today. Beyond his compositions, Rameau's theoretical works have left an indelible mark on the world of music, solidifying his status as a pioneer in the realm of harmony.
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Jean-Philippe Rameau
