The interplay of harp and lute, as performed on this album, was likely common in the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods, with musicians often playing both instruments.
Compositional Technique
John Dowland, a renowned lutenist and composer, wrote a curious composition, My Lord Chamberlain, His Galliard, specifically for two players on a single lute.
Instruments
In the 16th and 17th centuries, the lute was considered the musical standard across Europe, known for its tender yet differentiated sound.
Cultural Impact
The arrangements on this album include music by Jimmy Page, a member of Led Zeppelin, whose acoustic works were inspired by traditional folk repertoire and show traces of British Renaissance music.
Composer Biography
Thomas Robinson, a lutenist and viol player, published two best-selling textbooks, The Schoole of Musicke and New Citharen Lessons, which served as foundational works for musicians of his generation.
Recording & Production
The album's cover features a sculpture titled 'Candido' from 1994 by Vincenzo Cabiati, made of canvas, foam rubber, and wood.
Historical Context
The harp was a central and widely used instrument in the British Isles during the 16th and 17th centuries, with some harps having three rows of strings or 43 strings for chromatic playing.
