Musical Portraits from the Salons of Paris
Harpsichordist Elizabeth Anderson recreates a concert from the Salons of Paris. This CD features a collection of grand and lively harpsichord 'character pieces' by composers Forqueray, Duphly and Ballbastre brought to life through Anderson's deft and accomplished playing.
In pre-revolutionary France, the salon was a meeting place for an international aristocracy. Noted aristocrats would stage several salon concerts for invited audiences every month. The 'character piece' or 'portrait piece', often inspired by and representing a celebrated Parisian personality of the time, thrived in this intimate environment.
Artist
Elizabeth Anderson
Elizabeth Anderson has performed in no less than eleven international concert tours to Europe, Japan and Singapore. She is a regular guest lecturer and performer at universities and music schools throughout Australia.
Press quote
“Lively and sensitive ... lived up to the flamboyance of many of the pieces with exciting displays of virtuosity ... superb phrasing and sympathetic understanding of the music.”
— The Scotsman
Audio preview
Track Listing
- La Portugaise Antoine Forqueray
- La Bellmont Antoine Forqueray
- La de Drummond Jacques Duphly
- La Forqueray Jacques Duphly
- Chaconne Jacques Duphly
- Menuets Jacques Duphly
- La Felix Jacques Duphly
- Les Graces Jacques Duphly
- La de Belombre Jacques Duphly
- La de Caze Claude Bénigne Balbastre
- La d'Héricourt Claude Bénigne Balbastre
- La Ségur Claude Bénigne Balbastre
- La Monmartel ou la Brunoy Claude Bénigne Balbastre
- La Suzanne Claude Bénigne Balbastre
- La Berville Claude Bénigne Balbastre
- La Lugeac Claude Bénigne Balbastre
Performers
- Elizabeth Anderson · harpsichord
Composer
Claude Bénigne Balbastre
Claude Balbastre (December 8, 1724 – May 9, 1799) was a French composer, organist and harpsichordist. He was one of the most famous musicians of his time.
Where to buy
Musical Portraits from the Salons of Paris can be purchased online through Buywell Music or the Australian Music Centre which both offer secure online ordering.
This title can be ordered through fine music retailers across Australia including Readings and Fish Fine Music.
Product details

Recorded at the Move Records Studio, Melbourne Australia.