The harpsichord used for this recording is an original Johann Leydecker instrument from 1755, which is part of the Universalmuseum Joanneum in Graz.
Instruments
The Leydecker harpsichord features a 'Vienna bass octave', which has a unique key arrangement for the lowest notes, making it a 'wonderful challenge' for the player.
Composition History
The keyboard concertos on this album come from a collection discovered in 1941, hidden in a tiled stove in Wurmberg Castle, Slovenia.
Historical Context
The era in which these pieces were composed, the mid-18th century, is known as the 'era between the eras' because it was no longer Baroque and not yet Classical.
Interpretation
The recording uses a historically probable instrumentation, with a solo instrument and strings one on a part, often doubling the basses with a violoncello and a Vienna bass.
Compositional Technique
Many of the keyboard concertos in the Ptuj collection, including those on this album, have a limited range, making them playable on both harpsichord and organ.
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