Quanta Beltà - Musique pour luth de la cour des Gonzague

Description

For more than five centuries, the lute was one of the most prized instruments in Europe. From medieval courts until the end of the 18th century, it accompanied princes, poets, and musicians, becoming a true symbol of musical refinement. Its golden age was in the 16th century. At that time, lutenists abandoned the plectrum to play the strings with their fingers, opening up new expressive possibilities: it became possible to make several voices resonate simultaneously, weaving complex and elegant harmonies. The instrument itself evolved, gaining a sixth string and extending its range to three full octaves. The lute repertoire developed rapidly, notably thanks to the advent of music printing. In 1507, Ottaviano Petrucci published in Venice the first printed books for solo lute, including the works of Francesco Spinacino. A few months later, collections by Giovan Maria and Joanambrosio Dalza followed. These publications testify to a lively and widespread interest—a curious, engaged, and passionate audience.