Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Henry Purcell's "Dioclesian, Z. 627," a captivating journey through the Baroque era's rich musical tapestry. Released on November 1, 1994, under the esteemed Chandos label, this choral and classical masterpiece spans 54 minutes of exquisite compositions, recorded in the acoustically resplendent St Jude-on-the-Hill in London.
Henry Purcell, a luminary of the Baroque period, showcases his unparalleled melodic and harmonic ingenuity in this album. "Dioclesian, Z. 627" is a testament to his enduring influence, featuring a diverse array of pieces from the opera "The Prophetess; Or, The History Of Dioclesian." The album is a treasure trove of vocal and instrumental works, including overtures, symphonies, dances, and choral pieces that highlight Purcell's ability to blend drama and melody seamlessly.
The recording, produced by Martin Compton and engineered by Tony Faulkner, captures the essence of Purcell's music with remarkable clarity and depth. From the stirring "Overture" to the delicate "Butterfly Dance," each track offers a glimpse into the composer's vivid imagination and technical brilliance. Notable pieces include the haunting "Charon the peaceful Shade invites" and the exuberant "Martial Song," which exemplify Purcell's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.
"Dioclesian, Z. 627" is not just a collection of songs but a comprehensive exploration of Purcell's theatrical music, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to Baroque music, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.
1994 Chandos Records1994 Chandos Records
Tracks
Dioclesian, Z. 627: First MusickHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627: Second MusikHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627: OvertureHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act I: First Act Tune. HornpipeHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: Great Diocles the Boar has kill'd - Sing Iô's! (Bass, Chorus)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, Michael George, Collegium Musicum 90 Choir
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: Charon the peaceful Shade invites (Soprano)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, Catherine Pierard
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: Symphony for Trumpets and ViolinsHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: Let all mankind the pleasure share (Soprano, Bass, Chorus)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, Catherine Pierard, Michael George, Collegium Musicum 90 Choir
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: Martial Song. Let the soldiers rejoice - Rejoice with a general voice - Retornello - To Mars let 'em rHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, John Mark Ainsley, Mark Padmore, Michael George
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: A Symphony of Flutes - Since the toils and the hazards - Let the priests… - All sing… (Alto, Soprano,Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, James Bowman, Catherine Pierard, John Mark Ainsley, Mark Padmore, Michael George, Collegium Musicum 90 Choir
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: Dance of FuriesHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act II: Second Act TuneHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act III: Two in one upon a Ground. Chaconne for FlutesHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act III: The Chair DanceHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act III: Prelude for Hautboys - What shall I do? (Tenor)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, John Mark Ainsley
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act III: Third Act TuneHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act IV: Butterfly DanceHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act IV: Tune for TrumpetsHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act IV: Sound, Fame, thy brazen trumpet sound (Tenor)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, John Mark Ainsley
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act IV: Let all rehearse (Chorus)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, Collegium Musicum 90 Choir
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act IV: Fourth Act TuneHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Act IV: Country DanceHenry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Appendicies: Since from my dear Astrea's sight (Soprano)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, Catherine Pierard
Dioclesian, Z. 627, Appendicies: When first I saw (Tenor)Henry Purcell, Richard Hickox, Collegium Musicum 90, John Mark Ainsley
Henry Purcell, born in 1659 in Westminster, London, is celebrated as England's greatest composer of the Baroque era. Despite his tragically short life, ending at the age of 36 in 1695, Purcell's prolific output and innovative spirit have left an indelible mark on classical music. Known for his over 100 enchanting songs, the heart-wrenching opera "Dido and Aeneas," and his magical incidental music for "The Fairy Queen," a adaptation of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Purcell's compositions continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His profound influence earned him the title "Orpheus Britannicus" and solidified his status as a pioneer of English music from the Restoration period until the early 20th century. Purcell's musical genius transcends time, making his works essential listening for any classical music enthusiast.
Vinylscout
Henry Purcell
