Instrumental Music in Late Eighteenth-Century Naples: Politics, Patronage and Artistic Culture

The music of early modern Naples and its artistic traditions is a rich field for scholars in eighteenth-century studies, with instrumental genres becoming an exclusive area of focus for the royal court. Anthony R. DelDonna's book investigates the role of these genres and introduces new material, bridging historical musicology, music theory, and Neapolitan and European history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 338 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The captivating world of early modern Naples and its renowned artistic traditions continue to be a rich source of scholarly exploration in the eighteenth century. The Kingdom of Naples experienced a remarkable surge in music, musicians, and cultural vitality from the early seventeenth century, driven by contemporary social, political, and artistic developments. While the scholarship on eighteenth-century Neapolitan opera has been extensive, instrumental genres have received comparatively less attention. However, it is worth noting that the culture of instrumental music flourished steadily, evolving into an exclusive domain of focus for the royal court. This shift in patronage norms is a testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of Neapolitan culture during this period.

In his groundbreaking book, "The Instrumental Genres of Late Eighteenth-Century Neapolitan Culture," Anthony R. DelDonna skillfully bridges diverse fields, including historical musicology, music theory, Neapolitan and European history. Through meticulous research and analysis, DelDonna delves into the multifaceted role of instrumental genres within late eighteenth-century Neapolitan culture. He presents a wealth of new material, including recently discovered instrumental works by renowned composers such as Paisiello, Cimarosa, and Pleyel.

This book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the musical landscape of Naples during this pivotal period. It sheds light on the social, cultural, and political factors that shaped the development of instrumental music and its significance within the broader context of Neapolitan society. DelDonna's work provides valuable insights into the musical practices, repertoire, and performance styles of instrumental musicians during this era, contributing to our understanding of the rich and diverse musical heritage of Naples.

In conclusion, the music of early modern Naples and its artistic traditions remain a fertile ground for scholarly inquiry in the eighteenth century. Anthony R. DelDonna's book "The Instrumental Genres of Late Eighteenth-Century Neapolitan Culture" is a significant contribution to our understanding of this vibrant and dynamic period. By bridging diverse fields and presenting new material, DelDonna offers a comprehensive exploration of instrumental genres and their role in shaping late eighteenth-century Neapolitan culture. This work will be of interest to music scholars, historians, and anyone with an interest in the rich musical heritage of Naples.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 170 x 243 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108725781