Toys for Two: From Dowland to California

"Toys for Two: From Dowland to California" is a captivating journey through time and musical styles, masterfully presented by Luca Pianca and Margret Köll. This enchanting album, released on March 2, 2018, under the Accent label, offers a unique blend of chamber music that spans from the Renaissance to the modern era.

The album features 25 meticulously arranged tracks for lute and harp, each offering a distinct musical experience. Pianca and Köll's arrangement of works by John Dowland, such as "My Lord Willoughby's Welcome Home" and "The Schoole of Musicke: A Toy," showcase their deep understanding and respect for the historical context while infusing the pieces with a fresh, contemporary energy. The album also includes modern compositions like "Bron-Y-Aur Stomp" and "Going to California," demonstrating the duo's versatility and ability to bridge different musical eras.

The collaboration between Pianca and Köll is evident in the seamless interplay between the lute and harp, creating a rich and immersive soundscape. Their performance is marked by technical virtuosity and a deep emotional connection to the music, making this album a standout in the chamber music genre.

With a duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, "Toys for Two: From Dowland to California" is an album that will captivate and inspire both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. The album's diverse tracklist ensures that there is something for everyone, making it a valuable addition to any music collection."