Linsey’s ‘cello is unique and very precious to her…it was made in 1790 and is thought to be of German origin. It is made of Maple and as ‘cellos are all different, this one is 7/8ths in size…a small fine instrument with a delicious tone…
At some point in it’s long life, a modern spike has been fitted but originally it would have been played in a Baroque style and held lightly with the calves of the player. The lower ribs have been replaced as historically this would have had a lot of wear and tear due to the holding technique. Also, to bring this ‘cello up to modern technical standards of playing, the neck has been replaced from a flatter baroque fingerboard to a more angled one.
In the late 18th Century, the ‘cello was regarded as very much an “accompanying” instrument…however, when you listen to Linsey’s style of playing she regards the ‘cello very much as a “lead” instrument which blends so well with Ken’s pipes and 12 string Lowden. it is quite wonderful so witness the variety of tones and voices this instrument can muster from high vocalise melodic lines to the gritty bass double-stop chords with every colour of the rainbow in between…
Lowden Guitars are made in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, by George Lowden one of the worlds top guitar makers. The Lowden 12 string we use has an exceptional light and bright tone. The combination of this with Linsey’s ‘cello which was made in 1790, gives the full round sound and textures that have become associated with our music. Continue reading “Lowden 12 String Guitar” »
Bellows-blown bagpipe from North East England which date back to the early eighteenth century. The modern instrument has seven keys and upwards on the chanter and four or more drones. The chanter has a closed end, combined with an unusual fingering style, each note is played by lifting only one finger or opening one key. The pipes can play in different Continue reading “Northumbrian Smallpipes” »
The Laud belongs to the cittern family of instruments. Six double courses (i.e. twelve strings in pairs tuned in unison), similarly to the bandurria, but its neck is longer. Traditionally used in Spain together with the guitar. Citterns have become a huge part of traditional Celtic music, but have a harder sound. The Laud is based on the same method of construction as a Spanish guitar, so a Continue reading “Spanish Laud (Lute)” »
The harmonium is one of the most commonly used instruments in Indian music today. It also sounds wonderful alongside the Northumbrian Pipes and the ‘cello. Bellows blown, like the smallpipes, it uses reeds similar to an accordion, with a short keyboard and also drones again similar to the smallpipes. The drone notes Continue reading “Harmonium” »