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Composer

Giovanni Maria Trabaci

1575 — 1647

Albums

Stravaganze consonanti
Gianluigi Trovesi, Stefano Montanari
Harp Music of the Italian Renaissance
Andrew Lawrence-King

Exploring the Enchanting Harp Music of the Italian Renaissance with Andrew Lawrence-King

Lose yourself in the captivating world of the Italian Renaissance, as renowned harpist Andrew Lawrence-King brings to life the splendid works of Giovanni Maria Trabaci. Experience an ethereal journey through time, with melodies that combine the grandeur of traditional harp music with the unique stylistic nuances that define Trabaci’s compositions.

In an exclusive event titled "Stravaganze Consonanti" brought to you by STAGE+, immerse in the soul-stirring renditions of these historical pieces by Lawrence-King. A veteran in the field of early music and a virtuoso of historic harps, he effortlessly bridges the gap between the contemporary audience and 17th-century Italy through the universal language of music.

Joining him in this musical exploration are acclaimed artists Gianluigi Trovesi and Stefano Montanari. Trovesi, a celebrated Italian jazz saxophonist, and Montanari, an esteemed conductor and violinist, lend their skills to blend the old with the new. Together, they weave surprising harmonies and fresh perspectives to Trabaci’s compositions, making the event not just a concert but a celebration of musical innovation.

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to partake in a mesmerizing harp concert that seamlessly combines the past era's charm with the modern musical sensibility. Experience the profound beauty of Trabaci’s works as they are intended to be: vibrant, emotional, and truly unforgettable.

Giovanni Maria Trabaci: A Pivotal Figure in the Italian Renaissance

Giovanni Maria Trabaci (1575–1647) was a pivotal figure in the flourishing Neapolitan school of music during the Italian Renaissance. Renowned as a composer and organist at the Spanish Chapel Royal in Naples, Trabaci contributed significantly to the repertoire and performance practice of his era, particularly for keyboard and harp instruments.

Trabaci’s Contributions to Harp and Keyboard Music

Trabaci's output bridges the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods, characterized by expressive freedom and inventive experimentation—qualities reflected in the subtitle “Stravaganze consonanti.” His works demonstrate both technical brilliance and a sensitivity to the lyrical capabilities of the harp and keyboard.

His 1615 publication, Il secondo libro de ricercate & altri varij capricci, encapsulates this innovative spirit. While these works were often published as keyboard music, many are conceived idiomatically for the harp—evidenced by wide intervals and specific trills—suggesting a deep understanding of the instrument’s possibilities.

The Album: Harp Music of the Italian Renaissance

On the album Harp Music of the Italian Renaissance, Andrew Lawrence-King performs Trabaci's music on period instruments, bringing out the historical colors and intricate textures of these pieces. The program often includes collaborations with interpreters like Gianluigi Trovesi and Stefano Montanari, expanding the sonic palette and highlighting the enduring charm of Trabaci's compositions.