This is a deeply satisfying new recording from the Indiana-based Alchymy Viols, joined by countertenor Michael Walker II. In his notes, Walker defines spirituals as preserving the history, sadness, joy, and hope of the enslaved Africans’ experience in the Americas. Their historically informed approach treats this repertoire in ways that feel both surprising and familiar.
Negro Spirituals, the Folk Songs of the New World Read More »
For a time, countertenor Russell Oberlin was the star of the American early-music scene, from concert and recital halls to TV appearances and on best-selling records. But his career was short-lived, and performance styles evolved away from his dated, often mannered delivery. But what a sensationally beautiful voice. A new box set captures Oberlin in his prime, singing with some of the great pioneers of the early-music movement.
Russell Oberlin, Early Music’s First Star Read More »
For a series devoted to ‘neglected figures from Irish musical history,’ Peter Whelan and the Irish Baroque Orchestra unearthed a 1767 program sung by Rachel Baptist, billed as a ‘Black Syren.’ On this lovely recording, soprano Rachel Redmond and the orchestra inhabit Baptist’s world, making ‘a connection through the centuries.’
Rachel Baptist, Ireland’s ‘Black Syren’ Read More »
Separated by 350 years and an ocean apart, Cuban and Chilean songwriters in the 20th century used some of the same compositional devices as Monteverdi and Purcell. Tenor Nicholas Mulroy’s latest work connects the European Baroque with Latin America in a pleasing, ear-expanding album.
De Pasión Mortal: Latin Pop Meets Purcell Read More »
Last month, EMA published John Koster’s review of Stewart Pollen’s book A History of Stringed Keyboard Instruments. In the review, Koster wrote that the ‘book is beset with numerous problems.’ In reply, author Pollens sent EMA a Letter to the Editor.
To the Editor: Stewart Pollens responds to John Koster’s Review Read More »
