A rewarding new biography on Henry Purcell brings the composer’s life and times into one slender volume. At the book’s center is an up-to-date dictionary — accessible to non-specialists — that mentions well-known collaborators and a range of musicians, political events, performance practices, relevant musical terms, and more.
Henry Purcell From All Sides Read More »
In a splendid new recording, soprano Hannah De Priest and period-instrument ensemble Les Délices offer pastoral dreams of Arcadia in cantatas and instrumental works by Rameau, Handel, Louis Lefebvre and others.
Arcadian Dreams from Cleveland Read More »
Lost until 2015, Telemann’s set of 12 Fantasies for viola da gamba were composed in the mid-1730s, about the time he published his often-heard fantasies for flute and for violin. Now Polish viola player Michał Bryła has smartly transcribed and brilliantly recorded the gamba fantasies. For Baroque violists looking for new solo repertoire, this is a rather stunning find.
New Viola Repertoire from Telemann Read More »
In its annual survey of the field, REMA-European Early Music Network received alarming input from its members on funding cuts. The impact will be felt across the sector, even as many European organizations rely heavily on public subsidies. It may mean ‘fewer concerts, safer and less diverse programming, less work for independent musicians, and more pressure on organizations that were already trying to hang on.’
When the Music Fades: REMA’s 2025 Early Music Survey Read More »
Saint Francis of Assisi preached against the Crusades and, venturing to Egypt to stop the fighting, met with Sultan Malik al-Kamil. This cross-cultural dialogue inspired the ensembles Constantinople and Holland Baroque for a deeply satisfying album that weaves together musical traditions from east and west.
Saint and the Sultan: a Dialogue to Stop the Crusades Read More »
