Robert King: The King's Consort
Release Date: 01 July 1997
Label: Hyperion Records Ltd
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 034571169675
Genres: Classical Orchestral
Description
Ten years ago Robert King and The King's Consort made a stunning recording of Handel's Fireworks Music; now comes the turn of the Water Music, and the results are even more impressive.
George Philipp Telemann's Wassermusik (commonly known as 'Hamburger Ebb und Fluth' â an oblique reference to the local method of sewage disposal!) was composed for a grand celebration of seafaring life during 1723. The music was noted at the time for being 'uncommonly well-suited to the occasion', and not least for its subject-matter: Telemann guides his audience through a pageant of aquatic folklore and meteorology.
Six years earlier Handel had been commissioned for a directly comparable occasion: an enormous party on the river Thames given by George I. A large orchestra was present on the musicians' barge: a good-size string section and a substantial wind presence. The sound of a large baroque wind band produces a magnificent sonority. Similarly, a colourful continuo force on the river seems probable. The rhythmic impetus of a pair of baroque guitars combined with the colours of two harpsichords lends the music a vital danceband-like rhythm section, much in keeping with the King's colourful intentions for his evening's entertainment!
All faithfully recreated, of course. Except for the barge.
Tracklisting
Roberto Prosseda, London Philharmonic Orchestra / Nir Kabaretti
The Brabant Ensemble / Stephen Rice
Steven Isserlis
The Nash Ensemble
MultiPiano Ensemble, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin / Ivor Bolton
Marc-Andre Hamelin
Marc-Andre Hamelin, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra / Andrew Litton
Gothic Voices / Christopher Page
Robert King: The King's Consort
Robert King: The King's Consort, New College Choir Oxford
Robert King: The King's Consort, King's Consort Choir
Robert King: The King's Consort, King's Consort Choir
Robert King: The King's Consort, King's Consort Choir
Robert King: The King's Consort, King's Consort Choir
Robert King: The King's Consort, New College Choir Oxford
Robert King: The King's Consort
