King Philip II, who ruled over Spain and large corners of Western Europe in the late 1500s, hired Flemish composers for his illustrious court in Madrid. A leading Spanish ensemble, El León de Oro, offer striking performances of this little-known repertoire.
The Forgotten Flemish of Spain’s Golden Age Read More »
In this review-essay, noted scholar Rebecca Cypess speaks to Ian Pomerantz and Byron Schenkman with a view to understanding the multifaceted contributions of their album, ‘Art Songs of the Jewish Diaspora,’ both musically and culturally.
Hearing Complexity in the Jewish Diaspora Read More »
The Fieri Consort’s latest album, ‘The Excellence of Women,’ offers music by the two foremost women composers of the Italian Renaissance, including premieres by Maddalena Casulana, the first European woman to publish self-attributed music. Casuela is paired with Barbara Strozzi, who produced more secular music than any of her peers. The Fieri’s spectacular musicianship makes it ‘a necessary addition to anyone’s library.’
In the Presence of Great Women Read More »
By now, we’re used to the astonishing insights gleaned by 19th-century classics performed in a historically informed style. Trio Ilona’s debut, in chamber music of Robert Schumann, adds yet more understanding. Their playing is at turns joyous, sparkling, and beautifully balanced.
Endlessly Satisfying Schumann from Trio Ilona Read More »
Although scholars often research particular types of historical keyboard instruments — clavichords, harpsichords, pianos — the makers themselves would have dealt with whatever was current in their city and era. With this in mind, historical keyboard expert Stewart Pollens attempts an integrated history of all stringed keyboards, with mixed success.
A Problematic New History of Keyboards Read More »
