I just noticed Purcell - an extraordinary life on the main ABRSM web site - it was published in June and I wondered if anyone had read it?

Earlier this summer I read Pepys' diary from the same period and it was fascinating. It could have been written yesterday I have to say I'm not a fan of the music from that period, but I find it interesting to read about the times in which the composers lived and to put their music in context. I wondered what anyone thought of the Purcell book if you've read it?

Can you appreciate music from the early Baroque, even if you are not a "fan" of my namesake, Henry? Purcell was such a brilliant composer and had a tremendous influence on those who came after him. .

HenryJ,

Your name is well chosen, in my opinion.

skylark,

I adore Purcell's music, and I'm very keen to read this book. Good to hear that even non-fans of early Baroque can get enjoyment from it.

denmark

I've just discovered that the author Bruce Wood is Professor of Music at Bangor University and Chairman of the Purcell Society. It should be a very good book!