Immerse yourself in the intricate and elegant world of Jean-Philippe Rameau's keyboard suites with this captivating album, released on Hyperion in 2007. This collection showcases three of Rameau's renowned suites, originally composed for the harpsichord and masterfully adapted for the piano by Angela Hewitt. The album features the Suite in E Minor from 1724, and the final two suites from 1729 in G and A Minor, offering a rich tapestry of Baroque music that spans a total of 78 minutes.
Rameau, a prominent French composer of the 18th century, is celebrated for his contributions to both opera and instrumental music. This album highlights his exceptional skill in crafting keyboard works that are both technically demanding and deeply expressive. The suites are structured around traditional dance forms, including Allemandes, Courantes, Sarabandes, and Gavottes, interspersed with character pieces that evoke a variety of moods and images.
Among the standout tracks are "Le rappel des oiseaux" from the E Minor Suite, a delightful piece that mimics the calls of birds, and "La triomphante" from the A Minor Suite, which showcases Hewitt's virtuosity with its intricate and triumphant melodies. The G Minor Suite includes the playful "La poule" and the exotic "Les sauvages," demonstrating Rameau's ability to convey a wide range of emotions and atmospheres.
Angela Hewitt's performance is marked by her sensitive interpretation and technical precision, bringing Rameau's music to life with clarity and nuance. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
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