Stanley: 6 Concertos in 7 Parts, Op. 2

Album Description

John Stanley's exquisite album, Stanley: 6 Concertos in 7 Parts, Op. 2, is a masterful collection of Baroque concertos that will delight and enchant listeners. Released on 27 November 1989 by the renowned Hyperion label, this 58-minute album is a testament to Stanley's skill as a composer and his ability to craft intricate, beautiful music.

The album features six concertos, each with its own unique character and charm. From the stately Largo of the Concerto in D Major, Op. 2 No. 1, to the lively Allegro of the Concerto in B-Flat Major, Op. 2 No. 6, Stanley's music is a joy to behold. With its elegant melodies, complex harmonies, and precise instrumentation, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical music.

Throughout the album, Stanley's concertos showcase his mastery of the genre, with each piece demonstrating his ability to balance contrasting moods and textures. The Concerto in G Major, Op. 2 No. 3, for example, features a lovely Andante movement, while the Concerto in A Minor, Op. 2 No. 5, boasts a dramatic Largo. The Concerto in D Minor, Op. 2 No. 4, meanwhile, showcases Stanley's skill at crafting energetic, virtuosic passages.

With its beautiful music, impeccable production, and historical significance, Stanley: 6 Concertos in 7 Parts, Op. 2 is an essential addition to any classical music collection. John Stanley's genius shines through in every note, making this album a true treasure for music lovers.

27 nov 1989

℗ 1989 Hyperion Records Limited

About John Stanley

John Stanley, born in London in 1712, was a remarkable composer and organist whose life was marked by both tragedy and triumph. At the tender age of two, Stanley suffered a severe accident that left him almost blind, yet this did not deter his passion for music. By the age of seven, he began his musical studies and quickly showed extraordinary talent. Under the tutelage of Maurice Greene, Stanley became a prodigious organist, securing the position of chapel organist by the age of fourteen and earning a Bachelor of Music degree from Oxford at just seventeen, a record that still stands.

Stanley's prowess on the organ and his compositions gained him widespread acclaim. He was known for his partnership with the legendary George Frideric Handel, who often attended his performances. Stanley's organ voluntaries, published in three sets, were immensely popular and cemented his reputation as one of the greatest English organ composers of the eighteenth century. Beyond his musical achievements, Stanley was also a governor of the Foundling Hospital, showcasing his commitment to philanthropy. His legacy endures as a testament to his resilience and musical genius.