One of the two Italian harpsichords is ideal for opera continuo its strong, quick-speaking bass "convinces singers to count, " Mr. Phillips says.

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So to balance this, I took up the harpsichord primarily for the chance to collaborate with other musicians by playing continuo in ensembles.

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Visually, the 17th century was miles away, but the chorus and orchestra, anchored by a formidable continuo group, shaped this glorious score with all the lyricism and transparency that one might wish.

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