Violinist Rachel Barton Pine can trace her pedagogical lineage straight back to Arcangelo Corelli. But for historical performance style, she studied with gamba player John Mark Rozendaal and harpsichordist David Schrader. Joined by lutenist Brandon Acker, they offer imaginative and rewarding readings of Corelli’s Op. 5 collection of violin sonatas.
Corelli Violin Sonatas, More Alive Than Ever Read More »
A sacred ‘parody Magnificat’ pays homage to another composer’s smaller work, such as a secular madrigal. The parody’s craftsmanship and originality display reverence for the original. A recent album of Magnificats by Orlandus Lassus, alongside the pieces that served as inspiration, is a brilliant game of matched pairs.
The Magic of Turning Secular to Sacred Read More »
If you’re in Europe, hoping to hear a deluxe celebration of Palestrina’s 500th birthday, go to the Duomo in Milan. In North America, the biggest Palestrina 2025 party will be in Grand Rapids, Mich., where an ambitious Catholic church will host a dozen ensembles, from the Tallis Scholars and Gesualdo Six to their own parish choirs — and all of it sung at regular Mass services.
The Big Event for Palestrina 500 is in Grand Rapids Read More »
Influential at the Bavarian court in the 16th century, Ludwig Daser and his music were overshadowed by his posthumously more celebrated contemporaries. But Daser’s lyrical gifts and structural innovations are gaining adherents, including the pan-European vocal ensemble Cinquecento. Their latest recording capture all the tension and exuberance of this remarkable music.
Cinquecento Revive Ludwig Daser’s Legacy Read More »
The great recorder virtuoso, conductor, and early-music pioneer Frans Brüggen died a decade ago, but his legacy remains strong. One of today’s brightest stars borrowed rare instruments from Brüggen’s collection. With limited time on fragile instruments, she plays to each of their strengths, often with ‘breath-taking intimacy.’
Celebrating Frans Brüggen’s Rare Recorders Read More »
