Molinaro: Danze e fantasie da intavolatura di liuto libro I

Featuring

Ugo Nastrucci
Simone Molinaro

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Performer Biography

Ugo Nastrucci, the lutenist on this recording, studied classical guitar and specialized in lute under Hopkinson Smith, performing as a soloist and continuo player with various early music ensembles.

Compositional Technique

Molinaro's lute compositions often include difficult fingering due to his technique of overlapping vocal lines, making some of his works distinctly challenging for the player.

Instruments

The theorbo, a large lute with an extended neck, was likely Simone Molinaro's main instrument, as official documents from his time mention its use and he was replaced by a theorbo player when ill.

Composer Biography

Simone Molinaro, the composer, was happily married and a fond father to his three stepsons, contrary to earlier biographical errors that claimed he was a priest.

Composer Biography

Simone Molinaro, the composer, was recognized as an "artis musicae eximiis doctor" and held the title of 'magnifico', placing him among Genoa's city elite.

Historical Context

Genoa during Simone Molinaro's time was a significant economic power, known for its wealthy bankers and merchants, as reflected in the saying: "Gold is born in America, dies in Spain but is buried in Genoa."

Compositional Technique

Simone Molinaro's compositional style, though Renaissance, features a horizontal, linear development influenced by Flemish counterpoint, evident even in his dances.