Ennemond Gaultier - Vieux Gaultier: Pièces de luth (LP)

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of the Baroque era with Ennemond Gaultier's "Vieux Gaultier: Pièces de luth." Released in 2000 under the naïve classique label, this album is a masterful collection of 21 intricate lute pieces, spanning a captivating 71 minutes. Gaultier, a pioneer of the lute repertoire, showcases his virtuosity through a series of suites in D Minor, F-Flat Minor, and A Major, each piece a testament to his compositional brilliance.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Suite in D Minor," featuring the "Prélude" and the poignant "Tombeau de Mezangeau," a tribute to a fellow musician. The "Suite in F-Flat Minor" and "Suite in A Major" follow, each offering a rich tapestry of dances and airs, from the stately "Allemande" to the lively "Canaries." The album concludes with the enchanting "La cascade," leaving you with a sense of tranquility and wonder.

Hopkinson Smith's masterful performance on the lute brings Gaultier's compositions to life, capturing the essence of each piece with remarkable precision and sensitivity. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Baroque lute music, "Vieux Gaultier: Pièces de luth" is an album that will transport you to a bygone era of musical sophistication and grace.