Sounds of Battle--and More
Paul Van de Water | Virginia, USA | 12/06/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The title of this disc, "Batalha," refers to a genre of 17th-century Iberian organ music that aims to recreate the sound of the battlefield. The fine Dutch organist Ton Koopman here plays three batalhas, as well 11 other Spanish and Portuguese organ works of the same period. His instrument is a modern Belgian organ built in the Spanish style, with the characteristic reeds and horizontal trumpets (trompettes en chamade). Although the organ has only 14 stops, it has no trouble simulating the clamor and clangor of battle.
The works represented here, and their composers, are little known, but they constitute a feast for organ aficionados. Koopman plays with his usual virtuosity and exuberance, and the recording faithfully captures the organ's varied colors and wide range of volume. If you're a fan of the organ, or a lover of the baroque, this disc will expand your horizons. Very enjoyable and highly recommended."