Leonardo da Vinci, the universal genius, drew plans for a 'viola organista' around 1480, which shares the same construction and playing principle as the lyrichord.
Instruments
Sławomir Zubrzycki, a pianist, composer, and instrument maker, built his first viola organista in 2012 based on Leonardo da Vinci's plans, and performs it on this recording.
Instruments
The album features a 'lyrichord', a keyboard instrument similar to a harpsichord, but its strings rest on a rotating wheel, creating a bowed effect like a hurdy-gurdy.
Historical Context
The 18th century in England was a time of experimentation and invention, driven by the Enlightenment spirit and a flourishing economy, influencing science, industry, and musical instruments.
Composer Biography
James Oswald, a famous Scottish composer, moved to London to escape political conflicts in his native Lowlands and soon taught members of the royal family.
Instruments
The lyrichord's principle, which allows for sustained tones, was inspired by the hurdy-gurdy and enables polyphonic music on a keyboard instrument.
Composition History
Handel's Concerto in B flat major (HWV 294) was originally planned for 'harp, lute, lyrichord and other instruments' for the premiere of Alexander's Feast in 1736, but he later changed his mind.
You might also enjoy...
Italian Bassoon Concertos
Balli, battaglie e canzoni: 16th Century Music for Organ and Percussion
Michel de La Barre: Suites et sonates
Orlando Gibbons - Fantasias and Cries
Blued Voices
Live From Vienna
Pierre Colin, Trésor oublié de la Renaissance
Ka:Vola
Ertönt uns durch dein Güte Variation (From Jesus nahm zu sich die Zwölfe, BWV 22, No. 5, Arr. for Violin, String Quintet & Piano by Jan-Peter Klöpfel)
Francesco Carta: 12 Songs on Poems by Emily Dickinson
