This is the follow up Retrospect’s debut recording, released to celebrate the 350th birthday of Henry Purcell, and reunites four Baroque instrumentalist superstars.

Continuing the composer's trio sonata texture found in Ten Sonatas in Four Parts, Purcell's later set is much more forward-looking to the later Baroque rather than taking inspiration from the old style contrapuntal models found in the earlier set.  These sonatas display the composer’s innate ability at blending influences from French, Italian and English music; exotic dissonances can be heard alongside the unique use of counterpoint.

This recording was nominated for a BBC Music Magazine Award and an International Classical Music Award and was named a ‘Choice’ recording by Gramophone, BBC Music Magazine and International Record Review. Recorded at St George’s, Chesterton, the recording beautifully captures the timeless beauty of Purcell’s most highly regarded instrumental works.

Retrospect Trio consists of musicians of international repute brought together by their shared passion for historically-informed musicmaking. Sophie Gent (violin), Matthew Truscott (violin) and Jonathan Manson (bass viol) are joined by Retrospect Ensemble’s Artistic Director, Matthew Halls (harpsichord / organ), for this recording. Founded by Matthew Halls, Retrospect Trio is formed under the umbrella of the larger Retrospect brand in order to focus specifically on the rich and varied trio sonata repertoire of the 17th and 18th century.

“The Retrospect Trio speak the language of Purcell as if it was their mother tongue.” – BBC Music Magazine

“The spirit of the dance sparkles irresistibly entrancing.” – The Sunday Times (Chamber Disc of the Month)

“...the best recording of these works I have ever heard...” – Early Music Review

“This is an utterly delightful disc.” – International Record Review (Oustanding)

“Now they complete the set with the three-part works, in which they are just as recommendable if not even more so.” – MusicWeb International