Description
Explore with us the fascinating world of 17th century dance music through our selection from “John Playford: The English Dancing Master”, first published in London in 1651. This music booklet invites you to bring the musical heritage to life through your own interpretations and combines historical depth with personal musical expression.
While preparing a Shakespeare performance, we came across Playford’s timeless melodies. From this pool we have selected 39 pieces specially adapted for the characteristic sound of the Dudey, an instrument that shaped the musical landscape of the era.
The melodies and their arrangements
In the first chapter, we remain faithful to the original, monophonic melodies in order to preserve the unadulterated charm of the historical compositions. The arrangements in the second chapter of “John Playford: The English Dancing Master” are the result of the interplay of dudey, gemshorn and recorder and offer flexibility for adaptation to different instruments. These arrangements are not only intended to show the diverse possibilities of the pieces, but also to encourage the expansion of personal musical boundaries.
With the added harmonies under the notes, a credit to Ian Harrison, we open up a field for creative design. It is important to us to focus on the melodies themselves and to encourage individual interaction with the music rather than including dance descriptions.
Thanks and incentive
Many thanks to all those who contributed to the creation of the booklet “John Playford: The English Dancing Master”: Ian Harrison, Iris Zimmermann, Elke Rieth, Lucas Bader and Georg Bildstein. Their efforts have made it possible for this collection to inspire musicians to go their own way in music.
From Schwäbisch Hall, we are sending this magazine out into the world with the vision that it will serve as an inspiration to make music together and develop personal interpretations.
Explore “John Playford: The English Dancing Master” and be inspired by the historical melodies that once set Elizabethan England in motion. Whether you follow the traditional compositions or take your own creative path, this collection is a testament to the power of music to connect people across time and space.
