Fontana plays Frescobaldi on Pipe Organ

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Girolamo Frescobaldi's masterpieces, reimagined and performed with exquisite finesse by Michele Fontana. "Fontana plays Frescobaldi on Pipe Organ," released on January 31, 2021, under Fluente Records, is a captivating journey through the Baroque era, spanning a total of 1 hour and 12 minutes. This album is a unique collection of Frescobaldi's works, performed on a pipe organ tuned with the meantone system, offering a fresh and authentic perspective on these classical treasures.

The album features a diverse array of compositions, including toccatas, messes, canzoni, recercars, and capriccios, each showcasing Fontana's virtuosity and deep understanding of Frescobaldi's intricate musical language. From the majestic "Messa della Madonna - Toccata avanti la Messa" to the intricate "Recercar Secondo," every piece is a testament to the enduring beauty of Frescobaldi's work and Fontana's exceptional skill.

Michele Fontana's interpretation is not just a performance but a homage to the legendary composer. The cover photo captures Fontana in a pose that mimics the famous portrait of Frescobaldi by Claude Mellan, symbolizing the deep connection between the artist and his inspiration. This album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and anyone seeking to explore the rich tapestry of Baroque music.

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.