Celebrating Spanish Compositions: Stephen Hough and Antonio Soler
Internationally acclaimed pianist, Stephen Hough, presents a collection of Spanish compositions on his latest album. Among these are the fascinating works by Antonio Soler. Experience the unique blend of harmony and melody that Soler was renowned for, beautifully played by Hough. This album offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Hough's unparalleled talent, while simultaneously exploring the rich heritage of Spanish music. Whether you're a long-time fan of Antonio Soler, or newly interested in Spanish compositions, this album is an audio feast designed to enthral.
Antonio Soler: A Glimpse into His Life and Work
Antonio Soler (1729–1783), also known as Padre Antonio Soler, was a prominent Spanish composer primarily active during the late Baroque and early Classical periods. He is best known for his extensive output of mostly one-movement keyboard sonatas, which remain an important part of the harpsichord, fortepiano, and organ repertoire.
Soler was born in Olot, Catalonia, Spain, and at the age of six entered the choir school (Escolania) of the Monastery of Montserrat where he studied music. By age 17, he was appointed Director of Music in Lleida and later joined the Jeronymite order at the Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial near Madrid. There, he became organist and taught members of the royal family, including the Infante Don Gabriel. He was a student of Domenico Scarlatti, and his works show Scarlatti's influence in their lively keyboard techniques, innovative forms, and often unexpected harmonic progressions.
Soler composed over 500 works, including around 150 keyboard sonatas, numerous church compositions such as masses and Christmas villancicos, six quintets for organ and strings, and concerti for two organs. He was also an innovator in musical theory, having authored Llave de la Modulación (1762), which was controversial in his time. Notably, he experimented with microtones and invented a keyboard instrument called the afinador to explore these ideas.
Festive Celebrations with Albrecht Mayer in Berlin
Celebrate the holiday season in Berlin with Albrecht Mayer and his family and friends. This special concert is sure to fill you with festive spirit, creating beautiful memories. Taking place in the charming Tanzsaal an der Panke, it’s an event not to be missed.
While the search results do not provide direct information linking these to Antonio Soler's works or the Christmas event in Berlin with Albrecht Mayer, given Soler's prominence as a Spanish composer and his significant keyboard repertoire, it is plausible that Stephen Hough's Spanish Album might feature or be inspired by Soler's works or the Spanish Baroque tradition to which he contributed.