Trevor Pinnock, renowned for his mastery of the harpsichord, presents "The Harmonious Blacksmith," a captivating collection of Baroque masterpieces recorded in 1983 at the Ongaku-no-Tomo Hall in Tokyo. This album, released on January 1, 1984, under the Archiv Produktion label, features a meticulously crafted selection of pieces that showcase Pinnock's virtuosity and deep understanding of the Baroque era.
The album opens with Handel's "Harpsichord Suite No. 5 In E, HWV 430," famously known as "The Harmonious Blacksmith," and includes its iconic "Air And Variations." Pinnock's performance on the David Way harpsichord, tuned to unequal temperament by Maurice Cochrane, brings a rich and authentic sound to these timeless compositions. The album spans a variety of works, including Bach's "Italian Concerto in F, BWV 971," Couperin's "Pièces de clavecin," and Scarlatti's "Sonata in E Major, K.380" and "Sonata in E Major, K. 381," among others. Each piece is performed with precision and a keen sense of historical context, providing a comprehensive journey through the Baroque harpsichord repertoire.
With a total duration of 52 minutes, "The Harmonious Blacksmith" is a testament to Trevor Pinnock's artistry and his commitment to preserving and performing the music of the Baroque period. This album is a delightful addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection, offering a blend of well-known and lesser-heard pieces that highlight the versatility and beauty of the harpsichord.
Vinylscout