William Christie Revisits Gaspard Le Roux

I get it. Not everybody likes harpsichord music to begin with. I occasionally get a few disgruntled calls when I air some on my radio program. What would they think of music with two harpsichords?

I may find out -- I intend to air selections from this release. And why not? Performing are William Christie and Justin Taylor -- two of the best harpsichordists of their respective generations. 

And the music is first-rate, too. Gaspard Le Roux was a harpsichordist at the turn of the 18th century. His 1705 publication "Pieces de Clavessin" is unique. Gaspard provided supplemental music for each piece. Music that could be played by a trio, or by two harpsichords. 

William Christie first recorded this material in 1977 with Arthur Haas. Then as now some editing of the original material was necessary. As a team, Christie and Taylor present a fresh take on this material. 

The two instruments blend well together -- as do the players. Le Roux does more than just double lines. He thickens textures and adds counterpoint. The result is almost symphonic on some tracks. 

Christie and Taylor include some two-harpsichord arrangements of other contemporary composers. And wisely so. Hearing a Lully overture and a Marain piece provided welcome breaks. 

This is an album worth revisiting many times. Christie and Taylor are superb players, and they have a real chemistry. My next task is to seek out that Christie/Haas recording and do a little A/B listening. 

Recommended.

Conversation: Gaspard Le Roux
Suites pour deux clavecins
William Christie, Justin Taylor, clavecins
Harmonia Mundi HAF 8905337