Trabaci: Keyboard Music, Book 2

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Giovanni Maria Trabaci's "Keyboard Music, Book 2," a remarkable collection of Renaissance compositions that showcase the composer's mastery and innovation. Released on Naxos in 2003, this album spans an impressive 2 hours and 27 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Trabaci's keyboard works.

The album is divided into several sections, each highlighting different aspects of Trabaci's musical genius. The "Ricercate Tono I-XII" series presents a set of complex and contrapuntal pieces, with each tone featuring multiple fugues. These compositions demonstrate Trabaci's skill in weaving intricate melodic lines and his deep understanding of polyphonic texture.

The "Cento Versi sopra li Otto finali Ecclesiastici" section offers a unique blend of Gregorian chant and original verses, creating a harmonious fusion of sacred and secular music. This part of the album is particularly noteworthy for its innovative approach to combining traditional and contemporary elements.

The "Toccate" section includes a series of virtuosic keyboard pieces, showcasing Trabaci's technical prowess and his ability to create dynamic and expressive performances. The "Canti fermi" concludes the album with a ricercar based on the tenor of Constantio Festa, featuring intricate canons and demonstrating Trabaci's contrapuntal expertise.

Giovanni Maria Trabaci's "Keyboard Music, Book 2" is a testament to the composer's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the Renaissance keyboard repertoire. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in early music, offering a rich and rewarding exploration of Trabaci's artistic vision.