Friday, January 1, 2010

Day 53

Followed up yesterday's listening of the "Rite of Spring", which may be considered one of the founding pieces of modern music, with a baroque opera, an English baroque opera. Needless to say it was pretty, but forgettable.

Side One:
Piece: Dido and Aeneas (Act 1)
Composer: Henry Purcell
Performers: Oriana Concert Choir and Orchestra, Harold Lester on harpsichord
Conductor: Alfred Deller
Record Date: None Given

Side Two:
Piece: Dido and Aeneas (Acts 2 & 3)
Composer: Henry Purcell
Performers: Oriana Concert Choir and Orchestra, Harold Lester on harpsichord
Conductor: Alfred Deller
Record Date: None Given

I'm not saying that this piece was bad, it just lacked the tonal complexity of Stravinsky, but then again most music prior to 1870 lack the tonal complexity of Stravinsky. It did not hold my attention, though I will be the first to admit that I did not give it my attention. I guess what I'm trying to say is that someday I will give this piece the true listening it deserves. Until then I will recommend it to anyone who enjoys harpsichord, and is looking for an older opera that is sung in English.