This book contains seven arrangements of “pastorales.” The pastorale was a common musical style used in the Baroque and early Classical eras. It is a serene melody written in a 12/8, 9/8, or 6/8 time signature that evokes a rural scene. These pastorale movements were taken from larger works by the composers and were originally intended for performance by chamber ensembles. The pastorales are suitable for church preludes as well as concert performances.
In these arrangements, some of the customary harmonies were altered and keys transposed to accommodate the lever harp and flute together. The pieces in this book were arranged in the closely related keys of C and G to facilitate lever or pedal changes so that the harper or harpist can easily move between pieces.
Lever changes appear between the staves by octave number and diamond-shaped notes; pedal changes appear below the bass staff. As the pieces have a moderate tempo, the lever changes should not be too cumbersome to the harper.
A separate leaflet has been provided for the instrumental soloist. However, if preferred, they may read from the harp score as the page layout and page turns have been planned accordingly. (Feel free to copy the optional cadenza from the instrumental part as well as any other page to facilitate the page turns.)
Dynamic markings, fingerings, metronome markings, 8va indications, and instructions are provided to facilitate performance. However, the musicians should use whichever expressive markings suit them, no matter what this book indicates!
The abbreviation V.S. refers to “volti subito,” which instructs the harpist to turn the page quickly, as the music immediately continues. The minimum range needed to play the harp part of this entire book is 27 strings – (3 and 2/3 octaves) – from low C to high A.
Included are a harp score and a separate instrument part. ALL HARPS + FLUTE/VIOLIN, INTERMEDIATE.
Table of Contents
- Antonacci, Pietro (fl. Mid 1700s) – G major
- Chèdeville, Nicolas (1705-1782) – G major (formerly attributed to Antonio Vivaldi)
- Corelli, Archangelo (1653-1713) – G major
- Handel, George Frederick (1685-1759) – C major
- Manfredini, Francesco (1684-1762) – C major
- Scarlatti, Alessandro (1660-1725) – G major
- Valentini, Giuseppe (1681-1753) – C major
