Clare Hall

A brief history of musical tempo - illustrated talk

Sat 27 February 2021

YouTube

The talk will analyse the attitude of both composers and performers to this critical aspect of performance. Is the perception of the 'correct' tempo individual to composers, or is it determined by the style and period in which they have worked? The various ways by which composers have tried to convey their intentions will be examined, together with the attitudes of performers towards these instructions. Historical recordings will be presented, together with contemporary reports and historical timings, to help uncover some surprising facts which can bring well-known works into a completely new light.

Cost: Free