A=415 Hz mandatory for Baroque?

[Matteo BerraParticipant]

Another question by a complete newcomer to this wonderful world of recorder music.
In order to play a Baroque repertoire, is it mandatory or very advisable at least, to have a 415 Hz pitched instrument, maybe because musical sheets are written for that kind of music? or, on the countrary even professional players use to play this kind of music with a 442 Hz pitched recorder?
Thank you in advance for answers,
Matteo

[William BrettschneiderParticipant]

Ive played baroque music professionally in ensembles both in 440 and 415. both (and more) happen.

[Giorgio SpugnesiParticipant]

Venetian pitch at Vivaldi’s time was a=440Hz.

[ChristopherParticipant]

It is true that Vivaldi can be legitimately played in A440. That was his pitch in Venice.

But most amateurs I’m aware of, who are serious about baroque performance, will generally do so in A415. Many pros do perform or cut CDs at A415 and a few are exploring various original pitches (A403-410, A398-A400, etc).

All very exciting!

Mainly French & English baroque repertoire on an A403 Bressan, and an A415 DeBey. Active enthusiast since 1971. Early Music program at York University, French baroque instruction at Royal Conservatory in Toronto.

[Kenneth MillerParticipant]

You mentioned that you’re a “complete newcomer.” All the CDs that come with method and anthology books are A=440.

[ChristopherParticipant]

Kenneth Miller wrote:

You mentioned that you’re a “complete newcomer.” All the CDs that come with method and anthology books are A=440.

If you’re addressing me, I’m referring to professional performance CDs that one listens to. Not ‘music minus one’ play-along CDs.

Mainly French & English baroque repertoire on an A403 Bressan, and an A415 DeBey. Active enthusiast since 1971. Early Music program at York University, French baroque instruction at Royal Conservatory in Toronto.

[Kenneth MillerParticipant]

No. That’s how Matteo Berra described himself upon starting this thread – “a complete newcomer.” It’s the first posting above. — k —

[ChristopherParticipant]

Ah! I missed that. Thanx.

Mainly French & English baroque repertoire on an A403 Bressan, and an A415 DeBey. Active enthusiast since 1971. Early Music program at York University, French baroque instruction at Royal Conservatory in Toronto.

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