Girolamo Frescobaldi: 11 Toccatas, Madrigale «Ancidetemi pur»

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Girolamo Frescobaldi's masterful keyboard compositions with this exquisite collection, featuring 11 Toccatas and the enchanting Madrigale "Ancidetemi pur." Released on August 25, 2023, by Da Vinci Classics, this album showcases the virtuosity and innovation of one of the most celebrated composers of the early Baroque period.

Girolamo Frescobaldi, renowned for his extraordinary skill as an organist and his groundbreaking approach to keyboard music, presents a selection of works from his "Secondo libro di Toccate, Canzone, Versi d'Hinni, Magnificat, Gagliarde, Correnti et altre Partite d'Intavolatura di Cimbalo e Organo," published in 1627. This album is a testament to Frescobaldi's ability to transcend the rigid structures of his time, crafting pieces that are as dynamic and expressive as they are historically significant.

The 11 Toccatas, each unique in character and technique, offer a captivating journey through the composer's inventive mind. From the intricate "Toccata terza" and "Toccata quarta," designed for organ during the elevation of the host in mass, to the technically demanding "Toccata nona" and the virtuosic "Toccata ottava," these pieces highlight Frescobaldi's mastery of counterpoint and his flair for improvisation. The album also includes the beautiful "Madrigale 'Ancidetemi pur' after Jacob Arcadelt," a passagiato version that showcases Frescobaldi's ability to adapt and embellish existing melodies.

Ivana Valotti, the soloist, brings her exceptional talent and deep understanding of early Baroque music to this recording, accompanied by the Nova Ars Cantadi ensemble under the direction of Giovanni Acciai. Their performance captures the essence of Frescobaldi's compositions, offering a rich and authentic listening experience.

With a total duration of 59 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for lovers of classical and Baroque music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or new to the genre, this collection of Toccatas and the Madrigale "Ancidetemi pur" promises to delight and inspire.

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.