Frescobaldi: Toccatas et danses

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque keyboard music with "Frescobaldi: Toccatas et danses," a captivating collection of works by the renowned Italian composer Girolamo Frescobaldi. Released on August 2, 2024, under the prestigious Warner Classics label, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Frescobaldi's virtuosic toccatas and intricate dances, showcasing his mastery of the keyboard idiom.

The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, featuring selections from Frescobaldi's seminal works, "Il primo libro di toccate d'intavolatura di cimbalo" and "Il secondo libro di toccate." From the intricate fingerwork of the toccatas to the elegant grace of the dances, each piece is a testament to Frescobaldi's innovative spirit and technical prowess. The album includes iconic works such as the "Partite sopra l'aria della Romanesca," a series of variations that demonstrate Frescobaldi's contrapuntal genius, as well as the lively "Corrente" and "Gagliarda" dances that highlight his rhythmic ingenuity.

Girolamo Frescobaldi, born in 1583, was a pivotal figure in the development of Baroque keyboard music. His compositions, characterized by their expressive range and technical complexity, have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. This album provides a rare opportunity to experience the full breadth of Frescobaldi's keyboard repertoire, performed with sensitivity and virtuosity.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, "Frescobaldi: Toccatas et danses" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. The album's meticulous production and the artist's deep understanding of the historical context ensure an authentic and engaging performance. Dive into the world of Girolamo Frescobaldi and discover the timeless beauty of his keyboard masterpieces.

2 augustus 2024

A Warner Classics/Erato release, ℗ 2024 Warner Music France

About Girolamo Frescobaldi

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.