Francesco Maria Barsanti was born in 1690 in Lucca. In 1724 he moved to England, living first in London and from 1735–1743 in Edinburgh, where his Old Scots Tunes were published in 1742. He later moved back to London where he died in 1775. Barsanti was highly esteemed as a composer, instrumental teacher, instrumentalist and copyist.
The special charm of the Old Scots Tunes in Barsanti’s version lies in the contrast between the original Scottish song melodies and the artful basso continuo added by Barsanti, which is contrapuntal in part, but always feels very natural. Each of the 30 pieces contained in this work is a jewel in itself and well worth extra study. Each song leaves room for the player’s own ideas in the form of an introduction, improvisations and interludes.
The new edition by Girolamo takes into account the findings gained from the latest research on this composer. It is distinguished by excellently readable notation, a separate playing score for melody instrument and bass – which considerably facilitates making music together compared to playing from individual parts – as well as a professional but easily playable basso continuo realisation. Without a doubt: charming music that will enchant an audience.
