Soler and Scarlatti in London : a Selection of Blended Sonatas Luisa Morales hpscd

Groups of sonatas by the two composers are alternated here, bringing home the musical continuity between them, played on Vermillion's late Kirckman of 1798. The notes describe the influence of Eng-lish harpsichords in Spain and Morales makes full use of the Kirckman's broad palette of colours, constantly changing registration and giving full rein to its extrovert personality, which suits her choice of sonatas admirably, particularly those of Soler. She is the founder-director of FIMTE – the annual festival of Spanish keyboard music which has published this CD – and has worked a lot with dancers on early Spanish dance and its influence on the keyboard music. The CD opens with a fandango attributed to Scarlatti which swirls with controlled swagger. Her playing has tremendous forward drive, particularly effective in the Soler which never palls here. This CD is thoroughly recommended.

Noel O'Regan Early Music News, London 2008