COMPOSERS: Purcell
LABELS: Deutsche Harmonia Mundi
WORKS: Secular Motets; Laudate Ceciliam; King Arthur Suite
PERFORMER: Paul Esswood, Kevin Smith, David James (countertenor), James Griffett, Ian Partridge, James Lewington (tenor), Brian Etheridge, David Thomas (bass)Pro Cantione Antiqua London, Collegium Aureum/Mark Brown
CATALOGUE NO: 05472 77466 2 ADD 1965/76
This is a splendid reissue. The suite from King Arthur shows that tight, stylish Baroque playing wasn’t unknown thirty years ago, and the other items, recorded ten years later, come up perfectly fresh, with real rhythmic spring and life. The singers include some famous names, and every musical line has personality: Ian Partridge and Paul Esswood in particular provide wonderful solos. A pity that texts aren’t provided, and that the booklet notes don’t give more information about the lesser-known works. Martin Cotton
Purcell: Secular Motets; Laudate Ceciliam; King Arthur Suite
This is a splendid reissue. The suite from King Arthur shows that tight, stylish Baroque playing wasn’t unknown thirty years ago, and the other items, recorded ten years later, come up perfectly fresh, with real rhythmic spring and life. The singers include some famous names, and every musical line has personality: Ian Partridge and Paul Esswood in particular provide wonderful solos. A pity that texts aren’t provided, and that the booklet notes don’t give more information about the lesser-known works. Martin Cotton
Our rating
5
Published: January 20, 2012 at 2:28 pm