In this podcast, Matteo Messori discusses his background in music and his latest recording. They explore the traditions of Bologna and the differences between Italian and German music. The podcast delves into the Parcumental technique and the levels of professionalism in playing music without numbers. They also discuss the importance of individualized approaches in teaching music, the connection between Gregorian chant and the Catholic church, and the relationship between composition and interpretation in keyboard instruments and ensemble music. Lastly, they touch upon the schools in Italy during the 18th century and Professor Messori's future recording projects.
Italian Baroque music influenced keyboard improvisation and composition through the Partimento and Continuo practice.
Matteo Messori teaches Partimento emphasizing bass movement and cantabile melody in the right hand.
Partimento and counterpoint are interconnected and essential for artistic maturity in keyboard instruments.
Deep dives
The Influence of Italian Baroque Music on Partimento
Italian Baroque music, particularly the tradition of Partimento and Continuo practice, has had a significant influence on the development of keyboard improvisation and composition in the 17th and 18th centuries. This tradition was characterized by a focus on singing melodies, exploring different bass movements, and the use of figures and numbers to create harmonic progressions. Notable composers like Padre Martini and Giovanni Paisiello contributed to the advancement of the Partimento tradition, providing examples and tutorials for keyboardists to enhance their improvisational skills and create their own compositions.
Teaching and Approaches to Partimento
Matteo Messori, an experienced professor and performer, teaches Partimento by emphasizing the movement of the bass and the cantabile melody in the right hand. He encourages his students to practice and memorize the solutions for creating pleasing and expressive continuo lines. While other teachers may incorporate fundamental bass theory or the Ramon system, Messori focuses more on practical approaches and the singing-based tradition of Italian Baroque music. He uses exercises, examples from composers like Bach and Handel, and recommends resources like the Trete di Armonipatic by Auguste Panzeron and the Libro Para Compagnare by Padre Martini as valuable tools for learning Partimento.
Contemporary Interest in Partimento
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Partimento among musicians and enthusiasts. Many individuals from the early music and continuo performance community are drawn to the historical significance and the practical application of Partimento. While it is now a trending topic and enthusiasts can be passionate about it, the tradition of Partimento offers valuable insights into the compositional and improvisational practices of the past. However, it is important to remember that Partimento should be studied and understood in its historical context, emphasizing the fundamental principles of Italian Baroque music.
The Importance of Padre Martini in Bologna's Music School
Padre Martini was a highly regarded teacher in Bologna who attracted students from Naples, like Pasquale Cafaro and Saverio Valente. Martini was known for his vast knowledge and expertise in music, having one of the most extensive music libraries. His teaching method involved starting with simple bass movements and keyboard exercises in three voices. The Bologna tradition of partimental focused on using figures instead of numbers, and it included compositions in 24 keys. Martini's influence extended to his students, such as the composer Matei, who followed in his footsteps and continued the Bologna school's legacy.
The Connection Between Partimento and Counterpoint
Partimento and counterpoint are closely connected and should not be treated as separate entities. Partimento provided a practical foundation for composition, while counterpoint focused on vocal composition and written scores. The study of partimento allowed musicians to improvise verses, develop solfeggio skills, and understand the possibilities of harmony without relying on total numbers. Counterpoint instruction in Italy included learning species counterpoint and vocal composition in score form. To achieve artistic maturity and understanding in keyboard instruments, it is essential to explore both partimento and counterpoint traditions.
What an honor to speak with my guest today, Harpsichordist, Organist, Keyboardist, Conductor, Composer and Improviser, Matteo Messori! He is the founder of the Cappella Augustana Ensemble and His latest recording is the complete harpsichord and organ works by Johann Kaspar Kerll, a new 3CD Box. We discuss the Bologna tradition, basso continuo, partimento, Padre Martini and Mattei, counterpoint, his partimento teaching method and much more!
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