Credits:

Frescobaldi, Girolamo (1583-1643)

Description:

Frescobaldi was one of the most important and influential keyboard composers of the early 17th century. His early works incorporate late Renaissance styles, and in his later years he left behind some of the most impressive and influential works of the early Italian Baroque. As the son of an organist, the young Frescobaldi grew up under the influence of his employer, the musically inclined Duke Alfonso II d'Este. He also served the Duke of Mantova and later became organist to the Medici family in Florence. He then moved to Rome to work for the Barberini family of Pope Urban VIII. It was during this time that he became friends with some of the most prominent figures of the time. Frescobaldi was influenced by many composers, including Ascanio Maione, Giovanni Maria Travati, and Claudio Merlo, but Frescobaldi's music is more accomplished than their works. Not only did he skillfully incorporate traditional forms, but he also made numerous innovations in terms of tempo.This box features the complete organ and harpsichord works, a vast collection of ricercare, toccatas, canzoni, fantasias, and capriccios, all performed on historical and rare instruments. The performance is by Italian Roberto Loreggian, a specialist in ancient music who has made many famous recordings. This valuable box set is a compilation of works recorded for Brilliant Classics to date.