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Donald Macleod and Bruce Wood discuss Purcell's earliest theatrical jobs and see how he tackled some of his court commissions.

Donald Macleod and Bruce Wood discuss Purcell's earliest theatrical jobs, looking at what effect the political intrigues of the time had on Purcell's other jobs as a court and church musician. Versatility was a necessity in Purcell's age. Early on in his career he successfully dipped his toe into theatrical waters, producing some hit music for Nathaniel Lee's Theodosius.

Part of Radio 3's Composers of the Year 2009 season.

Air (Abdelazer)
The Academy of Ancient Music
Christopher Hogwood (conductor)
Decca 475 5292 CD1 T3

Hail to the myrtle shade (Theodosius)
Judith Nelson (soprano)
James Bowman (countertenor)
The Academy of Ancient Music
Christopher Hogwood (conductor)
Decca 4786 5292 CD4 T21

Fly, bold Rebellion! Z324
Gillian Fisher, Tessa Bonner (soprano)
James Bowman (countertenor)
Rogers Covey-Crump (high tenor)
Rufus Muller, Michael George (bass)
King's Consort
Robert King (director)
Hyperion CDA 66412 T1

Dido and Aeneas (Act 2, Sc 1; Act 3, Sc 2)
Catherine Bott, Emma Kirkby (soprano)
John Mark Ainsley (tenor)
Chorus and orchestra of The Academy of Ancient Music
Christopher Hogwood (conductor)

I was glad
The Choir of Christ Church Cathedral choir, Oxford
Simon Preston (director).

1 hour

Last on

Wed 7 Jan 2009 22:00

Broadcasts

  • Wed 7 Jan 2009 12:00
  • Wed 7 Jan 2009 22:00

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