Giovanni Maria Trabaci - Trabaci: Harpsichord and Organ Music (LP)

Giovanni Maria Trabaci's "Trabaci: Harpsichord and Organ Music" is a captivating collection of keyboard works that showcases the composer's mastery and innovation during the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. Released in 2014 and spanning nearly two hours, this double-CD set offers a comprehensive exploration of Trabaci's compositions, performed with meticulous artistry by Francesco Cera.

Born around 1575 and active until his death in 1646, Trabaci's life remains somewhat enigmatic, but his musical contributions are undeniable. This album features a diverse array of pieces, including ricercares, canzoni, toccatas, and gagliardas, each demonstrating Trabaci's intricate contrapuntal writing and harmonic adventurousness. The works are divided into two parts, encompassing a rich tapestry of styles and techniques that highlight the evolution of keyboard music during this transitional period.

The album opens with a series of ricercares and canzoni, showcasing Trabaci's skill in polyphonic writing and his ability to create complex, yet coherent structures. The inclusion of toccatas adds a dynamic and virtuosic element to the collection, while the gagliardas bring a lively and rhythmic contrast. Notable pieces include the chromatic "Canzona franzesa settima cromatica" and the intricate "Ricercata nono tono con tre fughe," which exemplify Trabaci's innovative approach to composition.

Francesco Cera's performances are both technically impressive and musically insightful, bringing clarity and depth to Trabaci's intricate works. The recording quality is excellent, capturing the nuances of both the harpsichord and organ, and providing an immersive listening experience. Whether you are a fan of early keyboard music or simply looking to explore the works of a lesser-known but highly skilled composer, this album is a valuable addition to any music collection.