Louis Couperin: Dances from the Bauyn Manuscript

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque dance with Louis Couperin's "Dances from the Bauyn Manuscript," a captivating collection of suites performed by the renowned pianist Pavel Kolesnikov. This album, released on Hyperion in 2018, offers a unique opportunity to explore the innovative compositions of Louis Couperin, a composer whose brief yet influential career left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the 17th century.

Spanning just over an hour and nineteen minutes, this album features a meticulously curated selection of dances from the Bauyn Manuscript, the sole surviving collection of Couperin's music. Kolesnikov's performance brings to life the intricate and elegant compositions, showcasing Couperin's mastery of the suite form and his introduction of new dances and structures that would inspire generations of composers to come.

The album opens with a Suite in D Minor, featuring a Prelude that sets the stage for the intricate dances to follow. Each suite is a journey through the Baroque dance forms of the time, including Allemandes, Courantes, Sarabandes, Gavottes, Canaries, and Chacones, each performed with precision and grace. Highlights include the Allemande Grave in F Major, the Chaconne in F Major, and the Passacaille in G Minor, each offering a unique perspective on Couperin's compositional genius.

"Dances from the Bauyn Manuscript" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Louis Couperin and his contributions to the Baroque suite. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the timeless beauty of Couperin's compositions.