Christina Pluhar's "All' Improvviso: Ciaccone, Bergamasche, & un po' di Follie..." is a captivating journey into the medieval musical landscape, released in 2003 under the Alpha Classics label. This album, spanning 52 minutes, is a testament to Pluhar's mastery of early music, featuring 15 tracks that showcase her virtuosic playing and deep understanding of the period's musical styles.
The album is a delightful mix of well-known and lesser-known pieces, including the lively "Folia" and "Romanesca," as well as the hauntingly beautiful "Se laura spira." Pluhar's ensemble, L'Arpeggiata, brings these pieces to life with their rich, resonant sound and impeccable musicianship. The album's title, which translates to "Suddenly: Ciaccones, Bergamasks, & a bit of Follies...," hints at the variety and spontaneity of the music within.
Pluhar's interpretation of these pieces is both scholarly and innovative, offering listeners a fresh perspective on medieval music. Her playing is marked by a deep sensitivity to the music's historical context, as well as a keen sense of its emotional and expressive potential. The result is an album that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving, a true celebration of the medieval musical heritage.