•  Then go to this YouTube posting ofEmma Kirkby singing the aria with baroque instruments.
• Next check out the famous soprano Jessye Norman in concert.
• Finally, listen to anon-traditional recording by Alison Moyet.
• Respond to the following prompts:

1. What significance did Purcell attach to major and minor keys? Do you think his handling of keys makes sense and would be effective? Why?
2. What are the two famous arias in Dido and Aeneas that use the ground bass technique? Briefly describe this technique. Name at least twoother popular songs that employ a ground bass.
3. What did you think of the Emma Kirkby version of the aria? Did using baroque period instruments enhance the performance?
4. What was your opinon of Jessye Norman's version? Do you think this version captured Dido's intense pain and suffering?
5. Did you enjoy the Alison Moyet recording? How did the more modern interpretation effect the overall mood of the piece?
6. Which version was your favorite? Why do you feel this way?

Answer rating: 100% (QA)

Significance of Major and Minor Keys in Purcells Music Purcell was known for his mastery of harmony and his expressive use of major and minor keys Maj... View the full answer