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Harpsichords and Related Topics

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From:
Gregcrowell <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Harpsichords and Related Topics <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 1 Feb 2016 13:44:06 -0500
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Thanks to Tilman for the reference to Bach's use of the thumb. We are also told by Kirnberger and C.P.E Bach that he developed a fairly systematic use of the thumb. From Kirnberger (my translation):


"Oneshould make [students] acquainted with a rule invented by Joh. Seb. Bach: That,in most cases, the thumb should be used before and after the leading tone [Leitton] (Semitonio modi), whether thisfalls on a half or on a whole tone [i.e., a sharp or a natural key?]."


From CPE:


"...inascending, the thumb of the right hand is used after one or more half tones[i.e., accidental or black keys], but in descending before one or more halftones, and the left thumb [is used] in descending after, and in ascendingbefore half tones."


One important thought to fingering in general: Just as one often changes fingering in modern editions because they don't work for one's hand, for the keyboard layout, etc., we should not look as early fingering treatises/charts/descriptions as rule books. These writers are describing an aesthetic of fingering, not a prescribed pattern. As I always tell my students, a fingering decision is a musical decision.


Greg

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