The lute, derived from Arabic, came to Europe during the Middle Ages and played a social role in the 16th and 17th centuries comparable to the piano in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Interpretation
Before 1600, instrumentation was rarely specified in music, allowing performers flexibility and often interchanging instrumental and vocal parts.
Interpretation
This album features a mix of medieval and Renaissance music, ranging from the early 13th century to the early 16th century.
Instruments
The hammer dulcimer, featured on this album, is a zither whose strings are struck by small hammers, making it a predecessor to the modern piano.
Instruments
The hurdy-gurdy, a medieval instrument related to the Swedish keyed fiddle, arrived in Europe around the 12th century and was often considered a typical beggar's instrument.
Historical Context
Much of the music on this album was likely performed at court by professional musicians like itinerant minstrels and jesters, who also served as cultural emissaries.
Recording & Production
The instruments used in this recording are modern reconstructions, carefully patterned after original historical instruments.
You might also enjoy...
Johnny, Cock Thy Beaver - Popular Music-Making in 17th Century England
Music for Alfonso the Wise
Le Jardin de Mélodies - 16th Century French Dances & Songs
