by Eva
(Adelaide Australia )
Hi I found it really interesting that music from this era is sung in a different key to what is written. Love to know more about why etc. Thanks
Eva
Dana:
Hi, Eva,
The "key" is not the issue. Check out this video featuring the singing of Andreas Scholl, and then glance over the comment section regarding "counter tenor," "falsetto," and "castrati." It is a fact that talented young boys were occasionally castrated, growing up in a certain musical era to sing women's roles (women not being permitted onstage in some cultures & times). Castrati would have powerful voices, with their big chests. There is a story that Handel himself caught wind of a rumor that he was destined to be castrated for this purpose and RAN AWAY - but I don't know if there is any truth to the story.
Sorry the link is not clickable:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7XH-58eB8c
Please note that all comments are moderated, and will not appear until I have approved them. Also, IF YOU ARE ASKING FOR MUSIC THAT IS NOT IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN, YOUR REQUEST WILL BE IGNORED. That's pretty much any music written in the last 75 years...