Primor Sluchin, the harpist of Duo Emaho, was a recipient of the prestigious Karajan Fellowship and joined the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra under Sir Simon Rattle.
Historical Context
This album revives a musical practice from 18th and 19th-century Parisian salons, where popular opera arias were performed with spectacular instrumental virtuosity.
Performer Biography
Maud Renier, the pianist of Duo Emaho, has recorded the complete works for violin and piano, and flute and piano, by composer Leo Ornstein, which received international critical acclaim.
Instruments
The harp gained immense popularity in French salons during the 18th century, largely due to Marie-Antoinette, the Archduchess of Austria and future Queen of France, who played it passionately.
Album & Artwork
The Duo Emaho, whose name means "wonder" in Tibetan, was formed in 2016 by two teachers who shared a hallway at a music academy.
Composition History
A specific repertoire for harp and piano emerged as virtuoso harpists adapted famous opera arias for solo harp or in combination with piano.
Instruments
The harp's popularity in Paris under Louis XVI led to a "harpomania," inspiring piano makers like Erard and Pleyel to improve its technology.
You might also enjoy...
I LOVE CONTRABASS
Music for Harp and Piano: Pollini, Negri, Mercadante, Rossi
Piazzolla: Works for Harp & Piano
Bass Favorites and Transcriptions from the 18th Century
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy "Lieder ohne Worte" für Kontrabass & Klavier
