Composed to the Soul

Album Description

"Composed to the Soul" is a captivating journey into the world of Baroque chamber music, featuring the exquisite compositions of Carl Friedrich Abel and Johann Adolph Hasse. This album, released in 2016, showcases the mastery of Abel, a renowned viola da gamba player and composer, alongside the elegant works of his contemporary, Hasse.

The album spans a concise yet impactful 52 minutes, offering a selection of string quartets, keyboard concertos, and arias that highlight the intricate beauty of Baroque music. Abel's compositions, such as the String Quartet in A Major and the Keyboard Concerto in D Major, demonstrate his skill in crafting pieces that are both technically demanding and emotionally resonant. Hasse's contribution, the aria "Frena le belle lagrime" from "Sifari," adds a touch of operatic drama to the collection.

Performances on this album are brought to life by Simone Eckert and the Hamburger Ratsmusik, with Dorothee Mields lending her voice to the vocal works. The ensemble's dedication to historical performance practices ensures an authentic and immersive listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Composed to the Soul" offers a rich and rewarding exploration of the Baroque era's finest chamber music.

5 februari 2016

2016 CPO

About Carl Friedrich Abel

Carl Friedrich Abel, born in 1723, was a German composer and virtuoso viola da gamba player who left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the pre-Classical era. Hailing from a family of musicians, Abel's journey took him from the courts of Dresden to the vibrant musical scene of London, where he became a chamber musician to Queen Charlotte and co-founded the renowned Bach-Abel concerts with Johann Christian Bach. Abel's compositions, numbering over 420, are a testament to his prowess in chamber music, symphonies, concertos, and sonatas, seamlessly bridging the Baroque and Classical styles. His legacy as one of the last great gambists and a pioneer in embracing new musical trends makes Carl Friedrich Abel a figure of enduring fascination for classical music enthusiasts.