June 2
08-22
Commemorating Fasch
This week on Harmonia we'll mark the 250th anniversary of the death
of Johann Friedrich Fasch with a commemoration of his life as an exceptional
composer. Instrumental works for both large and small ensemble will
be the focus. A new release of French baroque cantatas by Ensemble
Battistin will also be featured.
June 9
08-23
Feast of the Pheasant, 1454
This week on Harmonia we'll take a look at the extravagant medieval
banquet known as the Feast of the Pheasant. Hosted by Duke Philip
the Good of Burgundy, the event was intended to kick-off a crusade.
The feast itself was nothing short of a spectacle, especially its
musical entertainments. We'll listen to a reconstruction of its music
by Ensemble Gilles Binchois and a new release by Ensemble Dulce Melos
June 16
08-24
The Portuguese Renaissance
The Portuguese Renaissance produced a wealth of beautiful and fascinating
music. This week on Harmonia we'll listen some of its finest composers
--- Manuel Machado, Gaspar Fernandes, and Pedro de Escobar. We'll
also listen to a new Centaur label release by fortepianist Ira Braus.
June 23
08-25
The Corellisti
The music of Arcangelo Corelli was immensely popular throughout the
18th Century. As a result, many composers were influenced in a variety
ways. This week on Harmonia we'll look at the different types of pieces
that were created in his honor. Composers Veracini, Geminiani, Couperin,
and Telemann will be highlighted. We'll also listen to a new release
of Handel's opera Semele.
June 30
08-26
The Ursuline Manuscript
We'll celebrate the Fourth of July this week on Harmonia with a trip
to the Deep South. The French ensemble Le Concert Lorrain will perform
excerpts from the Ursuline Manuscript, the sole surviving collection
of music from 18th-century New Orleans. A recent release of Michel
Blavet's flute music will also be heard.
