Customer Reviews

Technique and Interpretation on the Harpsichord and Clavichord (A Midland Book)

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There are a number of books on technique and interpretation on these two (wonderful) instruments, but this one is not written by a theoretician, or someone laboring under the "publish or perish" academic dictum. Troeger is a well-known and respected performer with a number of excellent recordings to his credit. Moreover, I think the autodidact can best convey the enthusiasm felt while discovering the subject, and this is the case here. Mr Troeger learned by doing, building instruments and studying the music on his own from a very young age, and acquired his diplomas as an afterthought. He shares discoveries he made over the decades, and dissects all the historical authorities. This is a gold mine to ponder and digest over the years, not abstract dogma to skim. The style is direct and unpretentious. Both practical technique and interpretation of the music of different periods are covered. Examples from the literature shed light on many issues, such as the case of J.S.Bach's transcription of a Couperin piece, where the availability of both scores shows the degree to which Bach's notation is a simplified shorthand, and not something to be slavishly followed. Because Mr Troeger plays both harpsichord and clavichord equally well, this is a great resource for those who play either, or both. Schott's is another worthwhile text (see my review of his "Playing the harpsichord") that is more suited to the informed listener, while Troeger's is more oriented to the early 21st century owner of historically-based instruments who is working on refining his/her approach. A little expensive, but highly recommended.