Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Ground

Average_duration

:

2:09

Henry Purcell's "Ground for harpsichord in D minor, ZD 222" is a solo keyboard piece that was composed in the late 17th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written sometime between 1680 and 1695. The piece was first published in 1696, after Purcell's death, in a collection of his keyboard works titled "A Choice Collection of Lessons for the Harpsichord or Spinnet." The "Ground for harpsichord in D minor" is a single-movement piece that is characterized by its repetitive bass line, or "ground," which is played continuously throughout the piece. The ground consists of a descending chromatic scale that is repeated over and over again, providing a steady foundation for the variations that are played on top of it. The piece is written in D minor and is in a binary form, with two distinct sections that are each repeated. The first section is characterized by its slow, mournful melody, which is played in the right hand over the repetitive bass line in the left hand. The second section is more lively and features a faster, more intricate melody that is played in both hands. One of the most notable characteristics of the "Ground for harpsichord in D minor" is its use of ornamentation. Purcell was known for his skillful use of ornamentation in his keyboard works, and this piece is no exception. The variations that are played on top of the ground feature a variety of trills, turns, and other embellishments that add interest and complexity to the piece. Overall, the "Ground for harpsichord in D minor, ZD 222" is a beautiful and haunting piece of music that showcases Purcell's skill as a composer and his mastery of the keyboard. Its repetitive bass line and intricate variations make it a challenging and rewarding piece for any harpsichordist to play.

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