Frescobaldi's Manuscripts

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque keyboard music with "Frescobaldi's Manuscripts," a captivating collection of solo keyboard works by the renowned Italian composer Girolamo Frescobaldi. This two-disc set, released on Claves Records, offers a comprehensive journey through Frescobaldi's masterful compositions, drawing from manuscripts preserved to this day.

Spanning nearly two hours, this album showcases the diversity and virtuosity of Frescobaldi's style, encompassing toccatas, canzones, ricercares, and dances. Each piece is a testament to the composer's innovative approach and technical brilliance, reflecting his significant influence on the development of Baroque music. From the intricate "Toccata per organo" to the lively "Ciaccona" and the contemplative "Passacagli," every track reveals Frescobaldi's unique voice and his mastery of the keyboard.

The album features a meticulous selection of works, including lesser-known pieces that highlight the depth and breadth of Frescobaldi's oeuvre. The inclusion of pieces like "Canzona Frescobaldi" and "Toccata del Signor Girolamo Frescobaldi" underscores the composer's enduring legacy and his impact on subsequent generations of musicians.

"Frescobaldi's Manuscripts" is not just a collection of historical pieces; it is a celebration of Girolamo Frescobaldi's genius, presented with clarity and precision. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Dive into the world of Girolamo Frescobaldi and discover the timeless beauty of his keyboard compositions.

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.