Pietro Paolo Raimondo, the compiler of this manuscript, was a prominent figure in Como, Italy, serving as a decurione (an important position in town administration) from 1630.
Composition History
The manuscript, compiled by Pietro Paolo Raimondo, a noble from Como, Italy, is dated July 1, 1601, and is considered one of the most important sources for lute literature between the 16th and 17th centuries.
Composer Biography
Pietro Paolo Raimondo was a member of the Accademia dei Larii, a cultural society in Como, Italy, founded in 1560 to foster various artistic and intellectual pursuits.
Performer Biography
Domenico Cerasani, the lute player on this recording, holds master's degrees in early plucked instruments and chamber music, and has published several articles on musicological topics.
Instruments
The pieces in the manuscript are primarily intended for an 8-course lute, an instrument that became widespread in Italy from the late 16th century until at least the 1630s.
Recording & Production
The album cover features "Cena con suonatore di liuto" (Dinner with a lute player), a 1619-1620 painting by Gherardo delle Notti (Gerrit van Honthorst).
Compositional Technique
The manuscript contains 69 pieces, including popular genres of the period, dances, fantasias by composers like Francesco da Milano and Lorenzino del Liuto, and intabulations of vocal works.
