> If I or anyone else wants to say we think anyone, no matter how much 
> of a Big Name or a Worthy Personage, plays badly, we should be able 
> to say so quite freely

Yes. But is it also OK to say that I actually enjoyed Elaine 
Comparone's performance? This kind of sonata has to be played *con 
brio* - I think Scarlatti would have smiled at the idea that it had to 
be played 'with respect' by a 'master of relaxation'. And I won't be 
told that I have no taste for liking it. Peter-Jan Bielder, by 
contrast, is far too sleepy IMHO.

No-one has commented about the fact that Elaine Comparone played from 
memory. I wish harpsichordists would do this more often. The music 
desk must be a distraction.

Peter Bavington
Clavichord Maker
291 Sprowston Mews
LONDON
E7 9AE
Great Britain
Tel. & fax: +44 (0)20 8519 1170
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
http://www.peter-bavington.co.uk

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