Our systems are now restored following recent technical disruption, and we’re working hard to catch up on publishing. We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Find out more

Recommended product

Popular links

Popular links


Early Keyboard Instruments

Early Keyboard Instruments

Early Keyboard Instruments

A Practical Guide
David Rowland, The Open University, Milton Keynes
April 2001
Available
Paperback
9780521643856

    Early Keyboard Instruments covers a wide range of performance issues on keyboard instruments relevant to the music from c.1700–c.1900. It includes descriptions of the harpsichords, clavichords, pianos and other stringed-keyboard instruments used by performers of the period as well as aspects of technique such as harpsichord registration, piano pedalling and keyboard fingering. Aspects of the notation of keyboard music are discussed, as is articulation, embellishment, tempo flexibility and rubato. A substantial chapter is devoted to case studies, illustrating how the aspects of performance discussed in the rest of the book are worked out in practice, whether playing on period instruments or on the modern piano.

    • Wide range of historical issues covered in a short space
    • A practical investigation of the issues, which will enable readers to translate what they discover into their own performances
    • Written by an author who has direct experience of researching and performing repertory

    Reviews & endorsements

    '… it is, in fact, an excellent introduction … I wish there had been a book like it when I was a school.' Clifford Bartlett, Early Music Review

    'A significant body of information, lucid and succinct.' Early Music

    '… the breadth and clarity of presentation and indexing will no doubt ensure that players of any keyboard instrument will want to have [this book] to hand for quick consultation and revision for many years to come.' The British Clavichord Society Newsletter

    See more reviews

    Product details

    April 2001
    Paperback
    9780521643856
    168 pages
    229 × 152 × 10 mm
    0.243kg
    52 music examples
    Available

    Table of Contents

    • 1. Stylistic awareness and keyboard music
    • 2. Repertory, performance and notation
    • 3. The instruments
    • 4. Use of instruments and technique
    • 5. Non-notated and notated issues
    • 6. Case studies
    • 7. Continuo realisation.
      Author
    • David Rowland , The Open University, Milton Keynes