His contemporaries praised Frescobaldi as an organist, improviser and composer of exceptional talent. His first book of Capricci, Ricercari and Canzoni 1626 is presented here in an authentic version.<br>
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The work was published during the composer’s lifetime and moreover, without alteration by Vincenti in Venice, 1942. This edition is based on the edition of 1942 as its main source; in doubtful passages the editors compare with earlier editions.<br>
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The four parts which Frescobaldi printed in score on four staves have been reduced to two staves, but endeavouring to show the progression of parts as clearly as possible where they cross. Frecobaldi’s very informatory Preface “A gli Studiosi dell’ opera” is given in full, translated in English and German.<br>