Partimenti aren't just for keyboardists! Great vocal ornamentation comes from knowing what shapes fit the framework of the piece and knowing what harmonic progression the composer wanted. It also makes life easier when sight-reading... Check out more about partimenti from Early Music Sources!
Ornamentation in Monteverdi
Ornamentation - one of the most discussed topics in Early Music. How much? What type? Where? Here's an interesting discussion of those issues as they apply to Monteverdi!
Caccini and his opinions
Strong Opinions... Caccini definitely had them! And perhaps we give him more credit than he deserves... Learn more in this fantastic video from Early Music Sources!
How to improvise polyphony
Improvisation - it’s not just for jazz musicians! Early Music Sources gives a fantastic exploration of polyphonic improvisation according to the work of Tomás de Santa Maria!
The art of diminution in the 16th century
Diminutions, divisions, passaggi, glosas… Let’s talk about ornamentation in the 1500s!
Or even better, here’s Early Music Sources to teach us all about it:
Improvisation around 1600
Did last week’s video on singing diminutions catch your attention? Early Music Sources has another excellent video on improvisation in early music, including a reference for church organists on how to keep from confusing their singers.
Maffei's letter on how to learn singing diminutions without a teacher (1562)
“If your stomach is not too full, grab a mirror and go to a cave or a valley. Rest your tongue in the correct way and make sure not to move any unnecessary parts of your body, and start singing exercises.” Also, practice a lot, don’t be annoying, and don’t forget your colleagues. Thanks to Early Music Sources for another excellent video!
What's old is new again
Ever wonder why anyone would be into music that’s over 300 years old and requires a lot of work? Because there’s so much variety and improvisation that every performance is a new creation!
