Inventions: The Harpsichord across Time and Borders.

Katarzyna Kowalik

Whilst the harpsichord has been used in contemporary music since the early 20th century, it still gives off the aura of a ‘period instrument’. Harpsichordist Katarzyna Kowalik wants to change that. Her new programme, Inventions: The Harpsichord across Time and Borders features music that spans centuries and borders, celebrating harpsichord music from the British Isles. This programme combines contemporary works with historical pieces, highlighting female composers who have shaped and continue to innovate in harpsichord music.

Alongside music by 17th century French composer Élisabeth Jacquet de La Guerre and 18th century English composer Elisabetta de Gambarini (also a singer, she sang in Handel’s Occasional Oratorio and Judas Maccabeus) there is 17th century German composer Heinrich Scheidemann’s arrangement of John Dowland and three works commissioned by Kowalik. These are by Lisa Robertson (from the West Highlands of Scotland), Evangelia Rigaki (Greek-born, based in Ireland) and Janet Oates, and we are promised performances that incorporate Ebow, blu tack, paper, elastic bands, humming, singing, sighing, playing with a golf ball on strings and more! Robertson also contributes and arrangement of Marjory Kennedy-Fraser.

The concert is at Richmond and Putney Unitarian Church on 16 November, further details, and at Durham University on 20 November, further details. There is also the chance to catch Katarzyna Kowalik at Handel & Hendrix in London on 9 & 30 November, and 14 December.