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Untitled piece for theorbo (a.k.a. gigantic guitar!)


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Posted

Hi to all!

Have been trying to compose a piece for theorbo, and am finding it really hard!

Mainly because of the 8 unfretted strings, that can't be tuned to accidentals.

That seems to limit me to the 7 modes of C major; or something bitonal or atonal.

Anyhow, I've posted two versions below.

The first is what I wanted to write, and the second has been bent out of shape to eliminate accidentals on the lower strings.

Am thinking I may have to throw the whole thing out, and start again!

PDF
  • Like 2
Posted

A fascinating instrument. Tiorba is how I know it in my language.
I don't know anything about how to write for this instrument. I thought, perhaps associated with the Baroque and its use as a continuo, that the lower open strings were for the bass. Although it seems that you use it differently.

  • Like 1
Posted (edited)
5 minutes ago, Luis Hernández said:

I thought, perhaps associated with the Baroque and its use as a continuo, that the lower open strings were for the bass.

Yes they are traditionally used for ground bass.

I decided to write a two part invention, as it seemed natural to me to use the lower strings within the lower voice.

Edited by Alex Weidmann

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