Jordi Savall, Ton Koopman, Ariane Maurette - François Couperin : Pièces De Violes 1728

Ground-breaking recordings of François Couperin's Pièces de Violes by Jordi Savall, one of the most iconic releases on revered French label Astrée. Incredibly profound sound.

Founded in 1975, Astrée is one of the most beautiful and consistent label of XVIIe century music of its time, especially in its early years. Created by Michel Bernstein, the man who founded Valois in the late 1950's, a pioneering label in ancient music, it was home to some groundbreaking recordings, including a series of viol pieces played by Jordi Savall.

The quality of the work put into the mid-1970's recordings is astonishing, from the art direction to the recording techniques, these Astrée LP's don't offer the bright and slick sound major labels, like Philips, invested thousands of dollars to provide, but rather a profound, cavernous one that suits perfectly the solemnity of the pieces recorded. 

Jordi Savall's slow and profound rendering of François Couperin's Suites for Viol is breathtaking. Recorded in the Romanesque church of Saint-Lamber des Bois in december 1975, Astrée's inaugural release conveys the sorrowful colors winter and sets the tone for the rest of the collection...  Beautiful gatefold edition. Highest recommendation! (VG+/VG+)

Tracklist

1. Première Suite
2. Deuxième Suite