The trumpet of the 17th and 18th centuries, beyond sounding fanfares, developed into an instrument of high musical sophistication, particularly in its clarino playing.
Historical Context
Trumpeters understood the strong association between music and military might, with many famous players having military backgrounds.
Interpretation
Alison Balsom, the trumpet soloist, alternates between a modern valved trumpet and a natural baroque trumpet on this album, a rather bold choice.
Historical Context
In Old Regime Europe, culture, including music, served to protect the interests of ruling elites and represent the established order.
Composition History
Bach's 'Schübler Chorales', published around 1748, were written for organ and seem to have been intended to showcase the accessible side of the composer's art.
Compositional Technique
The best clarino players, those who played the valveless trumpet, could produce a range of sounds from ringing and clear to hushed tones, imitating the human voice.
Recording & Production
This album combines two distinct musical forces: the organ of King's College, Cambridge, played by Stephen Cleobury, and the Academy of Ancient Music, an ensemble that uses period instruments.
