The Artistry of Barthold Kuijken

The flute that was used during the baroque and early classical periods was very different from the flute we see used in classical music today. Made out of wood rather than metal, it also had few if any keys, meaning that players had to use cross-fingering and half-holing to deal with accidental notes. Most importantly, the baroque flute sounded very different, with a softer, quieter, and woodier tone than the modern flute. Of the musicians that took an interest in period instruments during the latter half of the 20th century, there was no baroque flutist more accomplished than Barthold Kuijken, and this collection brings together his recordings of works by François Couperin, C.P.E. Bach, Mozart and others into a single package that showcases his breathtaking musicianship.