Constance Luzzati, the harpist, chose to record these works to push the harp to its limits, exploring what can be transcribed from harpsichord to harp.
Historical Context
Transcription was a common practice in the 18th century, with composers like Forqueray fils adapting viol pieces for harpsichord and Royer including theatre pieces in his harpsichord collection.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in December 2023 at the Abbaye de Royaumont.
Interpretation
The album features a duo performance with harpist Constance Luzzati and theorbist Caroline Delume, creating a 'third way' between viol with continuo and solo harpsichord versions of the pieces.
Composer Biography
Antoine Forqueray, a composer featured on this album, was said to play like a 'devil', in contrast to the 'angelic' Marin Marais.
Compositional Technique
Many pieces on the album, such as Couperin's Les Baricades mistérieuses and Duphly's La Forqueray, are composed in the 'brisé' or 'luthé' style, an expressive harpsichord writing that evokes the lute.
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Revelation
Harp Recital: Bennett, Elinor - Zabel, A.H. / Hasselmans, A. / Glinka, M. / Thomas, J. / Mozart, W.A. / Zabel, A. / Saint Saens, C.
