2007-01-21 / The Sunday Times / David Cairns

RAMEAU
Keyboard Suites in E Minor, G Minor and A Minor
Angela Hewitt (piano)
Hyperion CDA67597

Despite periodic performances of his operas, Rameau is not part of our musical bloodstream, as are Bach, Handel and even Scarlatti, the other great composers born in the 1680s.

His idiom can still be elusive. This magnificent disc of three of his immensely attractive keyboard suites should help to enlighten us. Angela Hewitt responds to them with a combination of directness and delicacy that is irresistible. Rhythms are vital, rubato is subtle, yet never draws attention to itself, the abundant ornamentation flowers with brilliant naturalness, and her masterly touch persuades you that the piano is the perfect instrument to realise Rameau’s richly coloured music.