This recording challenges the common perception that the violin was primarily associated with dance music in the 16th century, suggesting its earlier use in liturgical and court polyphonic art music.
Historical Context
The violin, first mentioned as a 'vyolon' in 1523 at the court of Savoy, developed from earlier bowed stringed instruments like the rebec, lira da braccio, and polyphonic vielle.
Album & Artwork
The cover illustration, "Angels playing music," is a work by Gaudenzio Ferrari, an artist from the 15th-17th century.
Instruments
The violins and viole d'arco used in this recording were constructed by luthier Richard Earle, using early Renaissance instrument-building techniques.
Recording & Production
The album's title, "The Birth of the Violin," reflects its exploration of the early history and repertoire of the instrument.
Historical Context
Early descriptions of violin ensembles in the 1530s and 1540s are primarily linked to northern Italy, including the duchies of Ferrara, Mantua, Milan, Piedmont, and the city of Brescia.
Interpretation
The ensemble Le Miroir de Musique aims to present the repertoire of early violins with fidelity to original sources, drawing inspiration from Jacques de Liège's treatise "Speculum Musicae."
You might also enjoy...
De Lymburgia: Gaude Felix Padua
Sulla lira: The Voice of Orpheus
Secret Consolations
Metcalf: In Time of Daffodils / Paradise Haunts… / 3 Mobiles
Comes: O Pretiosum Music for the Blessed Sacrament
