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Topic: Joan Benson, clavichord player  (Read 1974 times)

Offline Derek

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Joan Benson, clavichord player
on: October 08, 2015, 12:56:43 AM
I got the following book not too long ago:
https://www.amazon.com/Clavichord-Beginners-Publications-Early-Institute/dp/0253011582/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1444265600&sr=8-1&keywords=clavichord+for+beginners

partly because I've become an avid clavichordist as well as pianist. But, the book also came with a cd of Joan Benson's playing on clavichord AND fortepiano. There are some *really* beautiful recordings on here. Some of the colors possible on a fortepiano are so fascinating relative to the modern piano. That thing you move with your knee to soften the color almost like an una corda? I forget what it is called right now but she uses it in the intro to mozart's fantasy in D minor...gorgeous. There's also a second movement of a Haydn sonata on here where she employs this device again. Her pianissimo is softer than I think I've ever heard from any other performer. Maybe due to her clavichord playing? I heard John Cage's "in a landscape" again and this time, gave me newfound respect for the composer. I don't know if I'll ever sit down and listen to all his avante garde creations, but this little piece is really, very beautiful.

Offline hardy_practice

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Re: Joan Benson, clavichord player
Reply #1 on: October 08, 2015, 07:09:10 AM
I think you're referring to the moderator.  I'm thinking of making a purchase - David Hitchin doesn't think much of her clavichord though.
B Mus, PGCE, DipABRSM

Offline Derek

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Re: Joan Benson, clavichord player
Reply #2 on: October 10, 2015, 12:26:42 AM
Who is David Hitchin? The name sounds familiar. I like the ton of her clavichord(s). I believe on the cd there are two clavichords represented. One I think is either Verwolf or Goff, of the mid-20th century school of clavichord building which I think was still considered "revivalist." But it has a really nice tone---I absolutely adore the Froberger and CPE bach recordings on this cd.

Offline hardy_practice

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Re: Joan Benson, clavichord player
Reply #3 on: October 10, 2015, 08:21:05 AM
David Hitchin is the webmaster for BCS amongst other things.  his review

Attached my Froberger (edit: and some CPE).  A bit quiet - it's a clavichord!  Why don't you post one of Ms Benson's Frobergers?  Love to hear it.
B Mus, PGCE, DipABRSM
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