The album features a giant bass panflute made of carbon, 1.5 meters across with its lowest pipe almost 2 meters long, specially designed for this project and the biggest ever built.
Cultural Impact
Commedia dell'arte, the Italian improvised plays of the 16th and 17th centuries, represents the first instance of professional acting in history.
Recording & Production
The percussion instruments used in the performance include not only traditional instruments but also everyday objects like bottles, chains, pots, pans, cups, saucers, and saws.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Black Pencil's name comes from Mehmet Siyah Kalem, a 15th-century painter whose miniatures inspired the ensemble's first project; 'siyah kalem' translates to 'black pencil' in English.
Interpretation
The performance begins with musicians in classical concert attire, but as the program progresses, their outfits change to include colored accents and multi-colored shoes, ending in a vibrant finale.
Performer Biography
Black Pencil, the virtuosic ensemble performing on this album, was founded in 2010 and debuted at the prestigious Amsterdam Concertgebouw in the same year.
Album & Artwork
The album's title, "Buffoni!", and its program are inspired by the Commedia dell'arte and the versatility of the buffoni, who were professional artists emphasizing visual humor.
