Cento Partite

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Girolamo Frescobaldi with his masterful composition "Cento Partite." Released on June 27, 2025, under the Faro label, this album is a testament to Frescobaldi's virtuosity and his enduring influence on early music. Spanning a concise yet impactful 11 minutes, "Cento Partite" is a collection of variations on the passacaglia theme, showcasing Frescobaldi's exceptional ability to weave complexity and elegance into his music.

The album features a series of 13 tracks, each offering a unique interpretation of the passacaglia, corrente, and ciaccona forms. Frescobaldi's "Cento partite sopra passacagli" is renowned for its technical demands and its ability to reveal the depth and subtlety of the composer's artistry. This recording is a rare opportunity to experience the full scope of Frescobaldi's genius, as it captures the essence of his distinctive style and the timeless beauty of his compositions.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer eager to explore the rich tapestry of Baroque compositions, "Cento Partite" offers a profound and enriching listening experience. Frescobaldi's mastery of form and his innovative approach to musical variation make this album a standout addition to any music collection.

Girolamo Alessandro Frescobaldi, born in Ferrara in 1583, stands as one of the most influential composers and virtuoso keyboard players of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. A child prodigy, Frescobaldi honed his skills under the tutelage of Luzzasco Luzzaschi and was inspired by the likes of Ascanio Mayone, Giovanni Maria Trabaci, and Claudio Merulo. His career reached its zenith with his appointment as the organist of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, a position he held for over two decades, interrupted only briefly. Frescobaldi's mastery of the keyboard established a style that would dominate European music in the Baroque era. Renowned for his contrapuntal brilliance and innovative use of harmony, his compositions, including the masterful "Fiori musicali," continue to captivate audiences with their inventive and improvisatory nature. Frescobaldi's legacy endures as a testament to his unparalleled skill and enduring influence on Western music.