This unique album is a collection of the very best of the virtuoso solo music composed for the galant French styled baroque bassoon. Included are a wide range of works composed for the court, the Opèra, for the home and from the street, brought back to life by Peter and special guests Ensemble Marsyas.

The basson, or bassoon, inspired many now forgotten high-level artworks by the greatest French composers. As the leaders in musical fashion, they in turn influenced their German contemporaries who were inspired by the elegance and lyrical possibilities of the new French instrument, especially in the expressive tenor register.

This recording includes a world-premiere of the Irish Air, Eileen Aroon, arranged for bassoon and continuo by Handel's first violinist in Dublin, Matthew Dubourg. This beautiful melody subsequently became very popular in Europe and inspired compositions by both Haydn and Beethoven.

A 24-bit 192 kHz studio master for this album is available from the Linn Records website.