Purcell/Händel: Suite Concerto

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque music with the Freiburger Barockorchester's captivating album, "Purcell/Händel: Suite Concerto." This 1994 release on Deutsche Harmonia Mundi is a testament to the ensemble's mastery of the period's intricate styles and forms.

The album opens with a suite from Henry Purcell's semi-opera "The Prophetess, or The History of Dioclesian," showcasing the Freiburger Barockorchester's ability to navigate the composer's distinctive idiom. The suite includes a variety of dances and songs, from the lively "Dance of Bacchanals" to the haunting "Dance of the Furies," offering a glimpse into Purcell's dramatic and expressive musical language.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the works of George Frideric Handel, beginning with his Concerto Grosso in G Minor, Op. 6 No. 6. This five-movement work is a prime example of Handel's contrapuntal mastery and melodic inventiveness, with the Freiburger Barockorchester bringing out the full richness of its textures.

The album concludes with excerpts from Handel's "Il duello amoroso," a pastoral opera that showcases the composer's lyrical gifts. The ensemble's sensitive performances bring out the nuance and expressiveness of the arias and recitatives, making for a compelling conclusion to the album.

Throughout, the Freiburger Barockorchester demonstrates a deep understanding of Baroque performance practice, with a particular attention to articulation and ornamentation. The result is a recording that is both historically informed and deeply expressive, offering listeners a chance to experience the music of Purcell and Handel in all its glory. With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of Baroque music, performed by one of the most respected ensembles in the field.