George Frideric Handel - Harpsichord Suites, HWV 426–433 (Scott Ross)

Information

Composer: George Frideric Handel

• Keyboard Suite No. 1 in A Major, HWV 426
• Keyboard Suite No. 2 in F Major, HWV 427
• Keyboard Suite No. 3 in D Minor, HWV 428
• Keyboard Suite No. 4 in E Minor, HWV 429
• Keyboard Suite No. 5 in E Major, HWV 430
• Keyboard Suite No. 6 in F-Sharp Minor, HWV 431
• Keyboard Suite No. 7 in G Minor, HWV 432
• Keyboard Suite No. 8 in F Minor, HWV 433

Scott Ross, harpsichord

Date: 1985 / 2026

Label: Warner Classics

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Released digitally on March 1, 2026, to mark the 75th anniversary of Scott Ross’s birth, the historic recording of Handel’s Harpsichord Suites, Volume 1—featuring the eight suites published in 1720—has been meticulously remastered from the original source tapes. The restoration highlights Ross’s distinctive clarity, expressive intensity, and technical brilliance, presenting the music with remarkable realism. Renowned for the extraordinary achievement of recording all 555 of Scarlatti’s keyboard sonatas, Ross died at just 38. Known for his unconventional stage presence and vibrant artistry, he brought a striking vitality to Baroque music, and this recording reflects his uniquely dynamic interpretation.

Scott Ross (1951–1989) was an American harpsichordist renowned for his originality, technical brilliance, and unconventional artistic personality. Born in Pittsburgh, he suffered from severe scoliosis in childhood and later moved to France, where he studied harpsichord in Nice and Paris, winning the prestigious Concours de Bruges in 1971. Ross taught at Laval University in Quebec and gained recognition through acclaimed recordings of Rameau’s keyboard works. Known for his informal appearance and independent spirit, he pursued wide musical interests while maintaining a deep commitment to Baroque repertoire. His greatest achievement was recording all 555 keyboard sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti. Ross died in 1989 in France at the age of 38.