Baroque styling of Domenico Scarlatti and Johann Sebastian Bach is combined here with a freedom of tempo, tonality and density, embracing a unique modern expression for the harpsichord.
Preludes and fugues are through-composed, sometimes with baroque-inspired motives and ornamentation. The simplicity of each musical voice encourages complexity when they interact, moving toward a deep interlacing, then back to a continuo more relatable to the period.
Contrary to Bach’s rigorous rules of fugue writing, the actual definition is utilized here: counterpoint in which a melody is successively developed by interweaving the parts. Phrase fragments may then be used as primary material, expanding the scope of themes.
Corrente is modeled after the Brandenburg concerti of Bach, designed to move in a flowing manner. Asiatico contains Japanese and other Far Eastern melodic phrasing. Cerebral in nature, the themes in Elevare encourage a detached format, moving beyond the visceral. Fantasia embodies creative fancy, daydreams, and a particular free release of imagination. Conjuring a royal ceremony, Processione invites a regal atmosphere. Cadenza concentrates on the resolution of melody and harmony. Embracing the movement of American blues and the bending of tones, Malinconia is wistful and imploring. Fitting a finale, Passione moves toward the most dramatic the subtle harpsichord can convey.
The term “Baroque” contains origins of irregularity, describing pearls that are imperfectly round. The Baroque was a period of musical experimentation and innovation in the 17th and 18th centuries, which carries easily into the 21st, as composers search for new forms of expression.
1 – Corrente – prelude (2:21), fugue (4:58)
2 – Asiatico – prelude (4:04), fugue (6:24)
3 – Elevare – prelude (3:06), fugue (5:10)
4 – Fantasia – prelude (3:42), fugue (3:58)
5 – Processione – prelude (3:54), fugue (5:11)
6 – Cadenza – prelude (3:42), fugue (5:03)
7 – Malinconia – prelude (4:25), fugue (5:30)
8 – Passione – prelude (3:37), fugue (5:27)
This album was composed, performed and engineered by Ron Fein – copyright 2024.