The harpsichord used on this recording was made by Philippe Humeau, modeled after instruments by the Ruckers family, famous harpsichord builders from Antwerp.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Matthias Weckmann, a composer featured on this album, created music that reflected the aesthetic upheavals and events of his time, including the Thirty Years' War.
Historical Context
Almost no German-made harpsichords from the 17th century have survived, possibly due to the Thirty Years' War interrupting their construction.
Compositional Technique
The 'stylus luxurians' was a compositional style known for its extensive use of dissonance and musical figures designed to move the listener and align with the text.
Composition History
Christian Ritter's Suite in C minor, featured on this album, includes an Allemande that serves as a 'tombeau' or memorial marking the death of Charles XI, King of Sweden.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in May 2020 at the Notre-Dame de Centeilles church, with Jérôme Lejeune handling both recording and artistic direction.
Composer Biography
Johann Jacob Froberger, a composer on this album, undertook a grand European tour in the 1650s, during which he visited Dresden and became good friends with Matthias Weckmann after a musical competition.
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Bach, J.S.: Harpsichord Works - Suites, Bwv 818A, 823 / 4 Duets / Fantasia On A Rondo / Preludes / Sonata
