The Orpheus of Amsterdam

Masterworks by Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck

In this latest recording, The Royal Wind Music celebrates the mastery of Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck — often hailed as the “Orpheus of Amsterdam”. The programme comprises four sections, each pairing a vocal work with two clavier pieces, and includes contemporary contributions: Dans voor Orpheus van Amsterdam by Aspasia Nasopoulou and the improvisation Kettingreactie, where the ensemble imitates, responds to and challenges itself using modern recorder techniques. With instruments ranging from a 15 cm sopranino to a three‑metre sub‑contra bass, the ensemble brings Sweelinck’s voices to life as if played on a walking organ.

Pan Classics PC10462, 2024

Arrangements and artistic direction: Hester Groenleer