Ricercata

Documentary by Daniël Brüggen. Ricercata refers to a type of late renaissance composition for solo instrument. The word is derived from the verb ricercare, which literally means ‘to find again’. This type of composition consists of unaccompanied melody with occasional runs and passagework and was intended as an etude, exploring a mode or a technical device in playing an instrument. The composers were usually virtuoso players or teachers themselves, such as Diego Ortiz, Silvestro Ganassi, and Giovanni Bassano. Some ricercate have been specifically designated for Flauto, indicating a recorder. As one of the most widely played instruments, the recorder is mainly associated with elementary music education. What lies behind its reputation as an easy-to-play low cost instrument, and what is it that appeals to the imagination of many, including professional players? On a journey covering three continents, Daniël Brüggen explores the soul of this instrument and the attraction it held for him from the very beginning. Featuring recorder maker Bob Marvin, the Yamaha company, a Korean school class, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, the Dordrecht recorder, and recorder celebrity Frans Brüggen. Published on DVD 2011©MusicFrame Films. Duration: 37’min. English subtitles: