Blow & Purcell: Odes & Songs

Carlos Mena, counter-ténor; Damien Guillon, contre-ténor; Ricercar Consort; Philippe Pierlot, Basse de viole et direction

John Blow (1649-1708)
An Ode on the Death of Mr. Henry Purcell
Henry Purcell(1659-1695)
Here Let my Life / But ah, I See Eusebia Drown'd in Tears / Symphony for the Flutes / Strike the Viol / Her Charming Strains / Chaconne / A Song in the Prophetess / Symphony for the Flutes / No, no Resistance is but Vain / I Loved Fair Celia / Sweetness of Nature

1671.
There is no record of how Purcell's unprecedented youthful genius was received by his contemporaries at this time, though it seems logical that it must have caused considerable wonder in the musical world centred around Westminster.
The reality of London musical life was in fact difficult, frenetic, and grossly underfunded, and, along with the whole city, was thrown into confusion with the outbreak of the plague, the war with the Dutch, and the catastrophic fire of London.
Suffice it to say that a lifelong friendship developed with Blow, who relinquished his post as organist at Westminster Abbey to the 20 year old Purcell in 1679.
Was it an act of simple generosity alone - or was it also recognition of a bewildering superiority ? and the inevitable need to stand aside.
Blow's music in the Ode on Purcell's death is probably the most coherent melodious and inventive, outside his beloved Church music.
It is also his most Purcellian.

Price: $26.98