When we think of the great musical families in history, Strauss and Bach loom large. But one of the earliest family dynasties in music history arose in Naples during the middle Baroque Period: the Scarlattis. While Domenico Scarlatti's fame would eventually exceed that of his pater familias, I would argue that Alessandro remains one of … Continue reading Baroque Music V: Alessandro Scarlatti (1660-1725)
Tag: Baroque Period
Baroque Music II: Jean-Baptiste Lully (1632-1687)
Enter the French. With the English School well-established since Dunstable and the German School developing in the wake of Martin Luther, the French School began to reassert its influence in the 17th and 18th centuries. First up, Jean-Baptiste Lully, court composer to the Sun King, Louis XIV. Born to humble origins, Lully would climb to … Continue reading Baroque Music II: Jean-Baptiste Lully (1632-1687)
More Monteverdi: A Prayer on the 20th Anniversary of 9/11
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, without end. It is a wonderfully cool morning in NYC. Perhaps that’s what triggered it in my mind -- it was that nearly imperceptible hint of fall that did the trick. 9/11. It had been the same 20 years ago: 9/11/01 was just … Continue reading More Monteverdi: A Prayer on the 20th Anniversary of 9/11
Back in the Baroque: An Introduction and Preview
The Baroque period covers roughly 150 years of music history, divided into the early (1605 to 1630), middle (1630 to 1680), and late (1680 to 1750) periods. Just a quick detour into music theory. Baroque music introduces the figured bass (also known as the thorough bass), as composers began what was to become an obsession … Continue reading Back in the Baroque: An Introduction and Preview
A Gertus History of Music 