Apple Music Classical has invited FT to contribute “The Friendly Beasts” to its new Christmas playlist, Classical Carols Covered. The playlist brings together contemporary piano interpretations of traditional Christmas carols, curated for the festive season.

Originally a carol with roots in 13th-century France, The Friendly Beasts has been reimagined by Tristano in a piano version that reflects its historical character while offering a personal and modern perspective. The track is now available on Apple Music Classical as part of this special seasonal selection.

You can play it here

The Friendly Beats by Francesco Tristano

In this playlist, I try to balance the original Baroque Bach, and Bach as recomposed over the centuries. My intention is to include recordings by Bach specialists such as Glenn Gould or Andrew Manze, as well as explore the different ramifications of Bach’s music, specifically in the electronic realm.

The selected tracks are all close to my heart. I love the pure sound of the lute (and this particular interpretation by Konrad Junghänel) just as much as the ambient, layered organ samples by Sutekh. In a way they are very complementary. Yet they only begin to explore the possibilities, and potential, of Bach’s scores.

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Play it here

Dear friends,

I am beyond grateful to share some wonderful news with you. My latest album, featuring Bach’s Six Partitas, has reached 1 million plays on Apple Music and is currently ranked #1 on Apple Music Classical’s Top 100!

This incredible milestone would not have been possible without your support, your curiosity, and your love for music. I’m deeply touched by how these timeless works of Bach continue to resonate with so many of you.

Thank you for taking the time to listen, for sharing your thoughts, and for joining me on this journey.

If you haven’t had the chance to explore the album yet, you can find it here.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Francesco <3

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