Immerse yourself in the dramatic and expressive world of Baroque music and learn the basics of Baroque performance practice. Historically Informed Performance (HIP) is the practice of approaching music of the past with knowledge about the musical styles and musical technologies with which it was originally conceived and performed. It is not a recreation of the past but rather an exploration of what the past offers us as 21st-century performers.
Immerse yourself in the dramatic and expressive world of Baroque music and learn the basics of Baroque performance practice. Fall quarter serves as an introduction to Baroque string playing while Winter and Spring quarters focus on exploring diverse repertoire. Historically Informed Performance (HIP) is the practice of approaching music of the past with knowledge about the musical styles and musical technologies with which it was originally conceived and performed. It is not a recreation of the past but rather an exploration of what the past offers us as 21st-century performers. HIP involves 1) “performance practice”—what kinds of approaches and instrumental techniques are appropriate to the given repertoire; and 2) the use of period instruments—what instrumental technologies (such as bows and strings) are appropriate to the given repertoire. While a culturally- or historically-informed approach is possible to any music, this ensemble will focus on the music of the 17th and 18th centuries (primarily in Europe). Baroque bows will be available for students to borrow. Open to all string players. Singers, keyboardists, and others may also participate with permission.
The viola da gamba, or viol, is a six-stringed instrument with frets that is bowed underhand and comes in several sizes, from violin sized to cello sized. Extremely popular in 16th and 17th-century Europe, it was particularly prized among aristocratic amateur players in England. Explore the beautiful fantasias and polyphony written for a group of viols (called a consort). Open to both new and returning viol players, instruments are available to borrow. While previous string experience is useful, it is not required.
Go to the graduate admission application to submit your information. For information on admission requirements, visit the graduate academic programs page and locate your program of interest.
