Keyboard Music Before 1700

by Alexander Silbiger (editor)

Keyboard Music Before 1700 begins with an overview of the development of keyboard music in Europe. Then, individual chapters by noted authorities in the field cover the key composers and repertory before 1700 in England, France, Germany and the Netherlands, Italy, and Spain and Portugal. The book concludes with a chapter on performance practice, which addresses current issues in the interpretation and revival of this music.

Genres: Music

428 pages, Paperback

First published November 24, 1995

Reviews

[Allen Garvin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Collection of essays, mainly on regional styles (England, France, Germany & Netherlands, Italy, Spain) plus some performance practice notes. The English section was most interesting to me, with a lengthy look at the virginalist repertoire from the early Tudor days until the decline in the mid 17th century. The Italian one was also interesting, as I'm largely unfamiliar with that. I picked a few CDs to order based on the Italian chapter. Recommendations of editions of music are found at the end of each chapter.

[Richard Pohl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This unique series of the keyboard music history definitely deserves a great praise for collecting very well-chosen amount of quite sought-after information... I found especially parts on early German and Italian music illuminating. It includes also detailed indexes, bibliographies, information upon instruments and even performing practices overview - for performers and teachers very valuable sources about editions of those rare works.