Corrette

Born in Rouen in 1709, Michel Corrette typified a generation of capable French tunesmiths, blessed with more entrepreneurial flair than pioneering creative zeal. Though little is known of Corrette’s life (he survived until 1795, dying just as Haydn, now a wealthy celebrity, was enjoying a second triumphant sojourn in London), his numerous compositions, including many organ works and a series of instrumental tutors, bespeak the hand of an accomplished musician, keen to ensure that his creations reached the widest possible market.

Our rating

3

Published: January 20, 2012 at 3:09 pm

COMPOSERS: Corrette
LABELS: Meridian
WORKS: Les délices de la solitude; Pièces de clavecin, Op. 12 (excerpts); Les amusements du Parnasse
PERFORMER: Badinage
CATALOGUE NO: CDE 84325 DDD

Born in Rouen in 1709, Michel Corrette typified a generation of capable French tunesmiths, blessed with more entrepreneurial flair than pioneering creative zeal. Though little is known of Corrette’s life (he survived until 1795, dying just as Haydn, now a wealthy celebrity, was enjoying a second triumphant sojourn in London), his numerous compositions, including many organ works and a series of instrumental tutors, bespeak the hand of an accomplished musician, keen to ensure that his creations reached the widest possible market.

This recording by Badinage draws together a selection of Corrette’s works, under the general title Les délices de la solitude, part of a cello tutor issued in 1739. As was the practice of the day, such compendia suited a variety of instruments, Les délices being adaptable for cello, viola da gamba or (as heard here) bassoon.

Of particular note are Corrette’s harpsichord works. David Rowland performs excerpts from his Pièces de clavecin, Op. 12, and Les amusements du Parnasse. Peter Carroll, playing flute, recorder, bassoon and oboe with equal prowess, is heard to advantage in various wind sonatas, with supportive continuo playing from cellist Sally Civval. An amiable and attractively engineered disc. Michael Jameson

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