Jean-Baptiste Besard: Life, Works, and Influence
Jean-Baptiste Besard (c. 1567 – after 1617, possibly up to c. 1625) was a Burgundian-French lutenist, composer, anthologist, music theorist, lawyer, and physician. Born in Besançon, he was educated at the University of Dole, earning degrees in law, and later studied medicine in Rome. Despite his professional activities in law and medicine, his legacy is primarily tied to music, especially through his work with the lute.
Notable Collections and Works
One of Besard’s most influential contributions is the Thesaurus harmonicus (1603), a massive anthology published in Cologne containing over 400 lute pieces by approximately 21 composers, including Besard himself. This diverse collection features a range of Renaissance and early Baroque works. Its appended treatise, De modo in testudine libellus, provides valuable instructions on lute playing and was influential enough to be translated into English for Robert Dowland’s Varietie of Lute Lessons (London, 1610).
In 1617, Besard published a second anthology in Augsburg, Novus partus, sive Concertationes musicae. This collection comprises works by roughly a dozen composers alongside his own compositions. It also included an updated lute treatise, Ad artem testudinis, later translated into German.
Besard's Role in Early Music
Although Besard composed some pieces himself, scholars often regard him primarily as an anthologist and editor rather than a prolific composer. His anthologies served as crucial resources for Renaissance and early Baroque dance music, much like Praetorius’s Terpsichore or the “Ancient Airs and Dances” that later inspired Ottorino Respighi. The works in his collections continue to be performed and recorded by renowned early music specialists and ensembles, highlighting their enduring musical appeal and historical importance.
Musical Legacy and Influence
Discover the captivating works of the renowned composer and lutenist, Jean-Baptiste Besard, through STAGE+. Besard's illustrious career is punctuated by innovative contributions to Renaissance and Early Baroque music. Our exclusive playlist includes the acclaimed ‘Praetorius: Dances from Terpsichore,’ a classical masterpiece that echoes the lively merriment of the Renaissance era. This collection is not just a tribute to Besard but also to the transformative power of music over centuries.
One pivotal offering is ‘Ancient Airs & Dances: Original Lute Tunes That Inspired Respighi,’ featuring the lute's resonating notes that have profoundly inspired Italian composer Ottorino Respighi. It's an exploration of how Besard's artistry crossed boundaries and eras, shaping the music landscape as we know it.
Also included is the ethereal ‘Terpsichore: Renaissance and Early Baroque Dance Music,’ a medley of tunes that transport listeners back to the dance halls of the Renaissance, captivated by the enchanting harmonies of early Baroque music.
The collection is brought to life by the exquisite performances of The Parley of Instruments, led by Peter Holman, the enchanting voice of Rogers Covey-Crump, the skilful strings of Paul O'Dette, and the musical mastery of Konrad Ragossnig, Ulsamer Collegium, and Josef Ulsamer.
Dive into the mesmerizing world of Jean-Baptiste Besard with STAGE+, your gateway to premium classical music content.