How Portugal Became a Hidden Gem for this Organist! [The Well Tempered Cast] with Sean Maxwell

Dive into the world of Baroque music and historical keyboard instruments with The Well-Tempered Cast! In this episode, join host Nenad Leonart as he sits down with the talented organist and harpsichordist Sean Maxwell. Together, they start exploring the gems of Iberian music and its fascinating intersections with English and Central European styles. Get ready to uncover lesser-known instruments of the Iberian Peninsula, where ancient and vibrant cultural traditions thrive! You’ll be treated to a whirlwind discussion on the unique tonal qualities of historical organs in Portugal, the surprising early music scene that unexpectedly outranks many Central European countries, and the compelling reasons behind the preservation of these magnificent instruments. Sean shares his awe-inspiring experiences traveling and performing across Portugal, as well as insights into the complex and captivating sounds of the instruments he plays. What’s more, get ready for a behind-the-scenes peek into an exciting recording project featuring a revolutionary organ that brings together diverse styles, from Handel and Cabanilles to English keyboard music. Not only will you learn about historical performance practices, but you'll also hear about the contemporary revival of sacred music and the burgeoning interest in Iberian organ music. Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to redefine your understanding of early music and inspire your own musical journey. Don’t forget to subscribe for more engaging discussions on organ music, baroque instruments, and the nuances of historical performance! Join the discussion, comment below, and share your thoughts! Let’s celebrate the beauty and complexity of early music together! If you enjoyed this content, make sure to subscribe and don't miss out on the next recordings! You can also find all relevant links in your browser at https://leonart.com/linktree * * * * * * * * * * * * * 00:00:01 - Introduction to The Well-Tempered Cast 00:00:21 - Guest Introduction 00:02:47 - Surprise at Portugal's Early Music Scene 00:06:40 - Expectations vs. Reality in Portugal 00:10:41 - Unique Support for Sacred Music in Portugal 00:12:58 - Future Plans and Musical Secrets in Portugal 00:15:10 - Social Media and Music Awareness 00:17:17 - Discovering Iberian Instruments 00:19:14 - The Influence of Economic Stability on Instruments 00:20:13 - Preservation of Historical Instruments 00:22:56 - Uniqueness of Iberian Instrument Sound 00:24:40 - Regional Styles in Iberian Music 00:27:22 - Comparison with Other European Instruments 00:30:48 - The Role of Organists in Instrument Design 00:33:23 - Recording Experience in Porto 00:36:02 - "Bird Stop" Anecdote 00:39:07 - Creativity in Recording 00:41:59 - Variety of Instruments and Their Impact 00:43:58 - Discussing the Upcoming CD Album Project 00:46:30 - Significance of the Recording Location 00:49:47 - Encouragement to Explore More About Iberian Instruments 00:51:19 - Friendship and Collaboration Reflections 00:53:18 - Final Thoughts and Farewell ______________ #organ #baroquemusic #baroque #historicalinstruments #historicalperformance #sacredmusic #portuguese #seanmaxwell #nenadleonart #welltempered #podcast #classicalmusic #porto