Italian Harpsichord after Grimaldi

Carlo Grimaldi, who also made organs and lutes, was considered one of the finest Italian builders of the late 17th through the early 18th centuries. He retains that reputation today, even though only two of his instruments have survived. But these long and slender harpsichords, with no embellishment other than their graceful shape and complex architectural moldings, are among the most handsome and eloquent examples of Italian harpsichord building that have come down to us.

This splendid instrument, with its beautifully vocal treble and powerful bass will be used for several new recordings on the Musica Omnia label. First will be a complete recording of the harpsichord music of Henry Purcell, the great English composer, who was equally adept at composing in the Italian and French styles. In addition to the eight harpsichord suites, the recording will include all of Purcell's surviving music drawn from his works for the theatre. A second CD is planned, a recital with soprano Sherezade Panthaki and Peter Watchorn of Italian works for soprano and harpsichord.

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