Fitzwilliam Virginal Book

Dive into the rich tapestry of early English keyboard music with Ton Koopman's masterful interpretation of the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book. Released on September 9, 2016, this album is a testament to Koopman's virtuosity and deep understanding of historical performance practices. The Fitzwilliam Virginal Book is one of the most important collections of English keyboard music from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, and Koopman's rendition brings these timeless pieces to life with stunning clarity and precision.

Spanning a full hour, the album features a diverse array of compositions, including pavans, galliards, fantasias, and other intricate pieces that showcase the technical brilliance and artistic sensitivity of the original composers. Highlights include the lively "Pavan & Galliard No. 1 in D Minor" and the hauntingly beautiful "Pavana dolorosa Treg(ian)." Koopman's performance on the harpsichord is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the essence of each piece with a delicate touch and a keen ear for historical authenticity.

Ton Koopman, a renowned harpsichordist and conductor, brings his extensive experience and scholarly background to this recording. His work with the Amsterdam Conservatory and his contributions to the critical edition of Scarlatti's Sonatas underscore his commitment to preserving and promoting early music. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the rich heritage of English keyboard music and the artistry of Ton Koopman.

Ton Koopman, a Dutch maestro of Baroque music, is renowned for his profound interpretations and unwavering dedication to historical performance practices. As a conductor, organist, harpsichordist, and musicologist, Koopman has carved a niche for himself in the classical music world, with a particular affinity for the works of Johann Sebastian Bach and Dietrich Buxtehude. His journey began at the tender age of six, singing in a boys' choir and discovering the enchanting music of Bach, which has since been the cornerstone of his musical life.

Koopman's passion for authentic instruments and scholarly performance styles led him to found the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra & Choir in 1979, an ensemble that has since gained international acclaim. Under his baton, the orchestra has recorded over 400 CDs, including complete cycles of Bach's cantatas and organ works, as well as Buxtehude's opera omnia. Koopman's discography spans numerous prestigious labels, including Erato, Teldec, Sony, Deutsche Grammophon, and Philips, and in 2003, he established his own label, Antoine Marchand.

A prolific and versatile musician, Koopman has conducted many of the world's most important orchestras across Europe, the USA, and Japan. His contributions to the music world have been recognized with numerous honors and awards, including the title of Commandeur des Arts et des Lettres. In addition to his performing and recording activities, Koopman is the President of the Leipzig Bach Archive, further cementing his status as a Bach specialist and a pioneer in the early music movement.