Louis Couperin - Louis Couperin: Dances from the Bauyn Manuscript (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of French Baroque music with "Dances from the Bauyn Manuscript," a captivating album featuring the works of Louis Couperin, performed by the exceptionally talented Pavel Kolesnikov. This exquisite collection, released on March 30, 2018, by Hyperion, showcases 22 tracks that span a total of 1 hour and 19 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of Couperin's harpsichord compositions.

Louis Couperin, a pivotal figure in the French clavecin school, left behind a legacy of 122 extant pieces, many of which are preserved in the Bauyn Manuscript. This anthology, named after Bauyn d'Angervilliers, includes works that were seemingly rare in publication before 1690, making this album a treasure trove for enthusiasts of early Baroque music. The album features a variety of dance forms and suites, each meticulously performed by Kolesnikov, whose musicianship is equally at home in the French Baroque as it is in the high Romanticism of Tchaikovsky and Chopin.

Kolesnikov's attentive and refined approach to Couperin's music yields revelatory results, making this album a standout in the genre. The suite structures, including preludes, allemandes, courantes, sarabandes, and gigues, are performed with a sensitivity and intelligence that bring the music to life. Whether you are a seasoned classical music aficionado or a curious newcomer, this album offers a deep dive into the intricate and beautiful world of Louis Couperin's compositions.

"Dances from the Bauyn Manuscript" is not just an album; it is an exploration of the rich heritage of French Baroque music, brought to life by one of today's most talented pianists. The album's careful curation and Kolesnikov's masterful performance make it a timeless addition to any classical music collection.