By now, we’re used to the astonishing insights gleaned by 19th-century classics performed in a historically informed style. Trio Ilona’s debut, in chamber music of Robert Schumann, adds yet more understanding. Their playing is at turns joyous, sparkling, and beautifully balanced.
Endlessly Satisfying Schumann from Trio Ilona Read More »
Although scholars often research particular types of historical keyboard instruments — clavichords, harpsichords, pianos — the makers themselves would have dealt with whatever was current in their city and era. With this in mind, historical keyboard expert Stewart Pollens attempts an integrated history of all stringed keyboards, with mixed success.
A Problematic New History of Keyboards Read More »
Dresden’s Ensemble Polyharmonique made an outstanding recording of Heinrich Schütz’s rarely performed Easter oratorio ‘History of the Resurrection’ and follow up with an award-winning film. In music, dance, and dark atmosphere, they depict ‘a film-tale about love, faith, and the incomprehensible.’
A Film of Schütz’s ‘Resurrection’ for the 21st Century Read More »
Versailles, celebrating its 400th anniversary, attracts some seven million tourists each year. The Versailles Spectacles, a private corporation, sells millions of tickets to its deluxe entertainments: from fireworks and fountains to horse shows and DJ techno under the stars — and all of it helps subsidize the palace’s Opéra Royal.
‘Versailles Spectacles’ Celebrates 400 Read More »
The latest recording from the ensemble Profeti della Quinta, founded and led by Elam Rotem, explores Rore’s lesser known first book of madrigals. Popular in their day, these were widely reprinted as vocal or instrumental pieces and used for teaching — but never recorded in their original four-voice setting till now.
Madrigals from the ‘Divine’ Cipriano de Rore Read More »
