Classical Notes: September 10, 2009 Archive

Happy 350th, Henry Purcell

Posted at 4:42 PM on September 10, 2009 by Rex Levang (1 Comments)

Two video tributes to Henry Purcell, on his 350th birthday. This aria from "Dido and Aeneas" is his most famous composition, with the possible exception of the theme that Benjamin Britten used in his "Young Person's Guide."

The first version features Janet Baker, and comes from the 1960s, if you didn't guess from the b/w photography and vintage costuming. But it's still capable of causing a shiver. The second is engrossing in its own right, unusual instrument and all.

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