This is Nathaniel’s spinet – in the making – ready for its London launch on November 4th. I am told that all its decoration may not yet be complete – but – it will be very much ready to be played.
To buy tickets for 4th November go here
The spinet is being made for Nathaniel by Andrew Garlick, the UK’s foremost maker of harpsichords, who has been recreating French and Flemish harpsichords and spinets since the mid 1970s. The model for Nathaniel’s instrument is a 1753 spinet by the great Jean-Claude Goujon now in the Musée Instrumental in Paris. Only a couple of Goujon’s instruments survived the French revolution but those that do show him to be one of the finest makers of the day.
Nathaniel says:
The spinet was the favourite domestic instrument in the 17th and 18th century. The original design with its elegant curved side (hence bent side spinet) was devised by the great 17th century Italian harpsichord maker Zenti. Because of the layout of the instrument the strings lie at a 30 degrees angle to the keyboard giving a different plucking point and therefore a light, bright sound.
My new spinet comes from the pinnacle of instrument making in France. Makers at this time had mastered their craft and were creating harpsichords and spinets of such elegance and refinement that composers were able to really push the expressive elements of their compositions. It will also have a full 5 octave range which means I can play any of the 17th and 18th century repertoire on it.
Nathaniel will be playing works by Bach, Couperin, Mozart, Handel and Purcell – and the concert will be followed by a suitably Baroque buffet supper.
In the next post – more about Nathaniel. But if you can’t wait to find out more about him right now – check in to his site where you will also be able to hear some clips of him playing.
To buy tickets for 4th November go here
Salon Music Upcoming Concerts
22nd October – Highgate Society Sunday Lunchtime concerts.
The Ladies of the Salons. Accompanied by Matt Redman, Patricia Hammond sings parlour songs from the 1830s to the 1930s.
For more information and to buy tickets
26th November – Highgate Society Sunday Lunchtime concerts.
Jazz cellist Shirley Smart and guitarist Peter Michaels will be playing us some more of that great gypsy jazz.
Booking details to come very soon.
1st December – Christmas in Baghdad
A two day exhibition of Iraqi artist Khulood d’Ami’s work will be accompanied by an oud recital on the evening of December 1st.
More details to come very soon.
Dear Michelle,
Thanks for your latest newsletter – full of tempting events but you may remember that when I attended your summer party I said I’d become VERY choosy owing to my inability to drive after an accident. I’ve had a further fall involving a rib this time – very painful! I’m writing because I’m REALLY intrigued about the “Christmas in Baghdad” event and have pencilled it into my diary! Can’t wait to learn more!
Best wishes,
Sylvia Coury