Composer

:

Giovanni Picchi

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Average_duration

:

5:32

Giovanni Picchi was an Italian composer and organist who lived during the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. He was born in Venice in 1571 and died in the same city in 1643. One of his most famous works is the "Balli d'Arpicordo, Pass'e mezzo antico di sei parti," which was composed in the early 17th century. The "Balli d'Arpicordo" is a collection of six dances for harpsichord, which were intended for use in courtly entertainment. The piece is written in the passamezzo antico style, which was a popular dance form in the Renaissance period. The passamezzo antico is a slow, stately dance in triple meter, which was often used as a basis for improvisation. The "Balli d'Arpicordo" is divided into six movements, each of which is a different dance. The first movement is a passamezzo antico, which sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The second movement is a saltarello, which is a lively dance in triple meter. The third movement is a piva, which is a fast dance in duple meter. The fourth movement is a corrente, which is a fast dance in triple meter. The fifth movement is a gagliarda, which is a lively dance in duple meter. The final movement is another passamezzo antico, which brings the piece to a close. The "Balli d'Arpicordo" is characterized by its lively rhythms, intricate harmonies, and virtuosic keyboard writing. The piece is a showcase for the harpsichordist's technical abilities, with fast runs, trills, and ornamentation throughout. The passamezzo antico style gives the piece a stately, courtly feel, while the other dances add variety and energy. The "Balli d'Arpicordo" was likely composed in the early 17th century, although the exact date is unknown. It was first published in 1621 in Venice, and it quickly became popular throughout Europe. The piece has been recorded numerous times and is still performed today by harpsichordists and early music ensembles.

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