Singing the Gaillard, Hochschule für Musik Basel

In our study day we will explore the cultural contexts and performance practices of the galliard, a dance that required particular physical strength and agility especially from the male dancer. Moreover, focussing on the German sung galliard and its relationship with the Italian model, we will approach the following questions:

· What was the relationship between dance steps, music, and lyrics, particularly with regard to phrasing and rhythm?

· How were poetic and musical structure aligned?

· What changes occur when the Italian sung galliards are set to a new German text?

· What were the typical instrumentations?

· How can the singing, dancing, and instrumental accompaniment be balanced? Etc.

There will be introductory inputs by Hanna Walsdorf and Martina Papiro; Gabriele Miracle and Hubert Hazebroucq will each offer a presentation followed by a practical workshop.