A facsimile of a Thomas Stanesby Junior alto recorder, made by Bruno Reinhard, was used for the first time in this recording.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded at the Cité de la musique-Philharmonie de Paris, a building designed by architect Christian de Porzamparc.
Composer Biography
George Frideric Handel, the composer, was born in Germany, spent long periods in Italy, and became a naturalized English citizen in 1726.
Instruments
The harpsichord used in this recording is a Longman and Broderip instrument from the late 18th century, part of the Musée de la musique collection.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Handel's instrumental music is characterized by an omnipresent vocality, allowing performers to seek the most accurate expression through their instruments.
Compositional Technique
Handel frequently reused melodic motifs and even entire pieces from his instrumental works in his operas, such as the Allegro from Sonata HWV.377 in the overture to Scipione.
Interpretation
The performers chose to create two "Imaginary Suites" in the spirit of dance suites, varying instrumental colors and forms.
