Archive

Pioneering Dutch cellist, gamba player, teacher of Gustav Leonhardt and Anner Bylsma

Carel van Leeuwen Boomkamp (1906–2000) was a Dutch early music pioneer who reintroduced the viola da gamba and violoncello piccolo in the 1920s and 1930s. […]

Ambrose Gauntlett, forgotten gamba player and continuo cellist 

Although Ambrose Gauntlett (1889–1978) was a full-time orchestral principal, he was the most sought-after continuo cellist and gamba player in the UK from around 1930. […]

A 1718 bass viol, a viola d’amore and a Kirkman harpsichord in regular concert use in 1906, and not a Dolmetsch in sight!

A Kirkman harpsichord from 1755, similar to that used by Nellie Chaplin. By courtesy of Musical Instrument Museums, Edinburgh (MIMEd 4330).

By Guest Blogger: Mandy Macdonald The fascination of old instruments

The use of historical instruments contributed greatly to the charm of the concerts given by the Chaplin sisters and drew in audiences. […]

Arnold Dolmetsch’s competitors in 1904

“Indefatigable propagandists of ancient music” likened to Arnold Dolmetsch. Their hugely popular early music entertainments began in 1904, and continued for 25 years. […]