English Suites

The Dutch performer Bob van Asperen is a recognized specialist in the realm of performance on period keyboard instruments. Born and raised in Amsterdam, Asperen completed a conventional university course of study in music before embarking on lessons with harpsichord master Gustav Leonhardt starting in 1967; Asperen made his debut in Haarlem in 1968. Also in 1968 Asperen joined the group Quadro Hotteterre, of which he was a member until 1984. Asperen completed his studies in 1972 after finishing a course in organ at the Amsterdam Conservatory given by Albert de Klerk. Afterward he accepted a teaching post at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, which he held until tapped to replace the departing Gustav Leonhardt at the Sweelinck Conservatory, prompting Asperen's return to Amsterdam. His teaching duties in the Netherlands have not restrained him from touring internationally; Asperen has given master classes elsewhere in Europe and also Canada, the United States, and Australia.

Christophe Rousset's performances as a harpsichordist have attracted the attention of the international press as well as record companies. A member of 'Les Arts Florissants', then I'l Seminario Musicale', he finally embarked on a career as a music director, which led his to the form his own ensemble, 'Les Talents Lyriques', in 1991. This recording marks the beginning of a collaboration between Christophe Rousset and Ambroisie, especially with Bach.

There has been no more original genius of the keyboard than Glenn Gould, but this has ¬drawbacks as well as thrilling advantages. He can sacrifice depth of feeling for a relentless and quixotic sense of adventure. Yet love it or deride it, every bar of these lovingly remastered discs tingles with joie de vivre and an unequalled force and vitality. Try the opening of the First Suite