Clavichord

The principal subject of clavichord is taught in the third and fourth year of the bachelor curriculum and offers harpsichordists, organists and pianists the opportunity to focus on the clavichord for two years. All important types of clavichord will be dealt with; from the multiple fretted instruments from the 16th and 17th century to the diatonic free and the large unfretted instruments from the 18th century, including pedal clavichords.

Teacher

Menno van Delft

The most important subsidiary subject is basso continuo (including chamber music, accompanying singers and choir, orchestra, theatre and church music). Students who already have ample experience in this field, may also choose an instrumental subsidiary subject, for instance piano, harpsichord or pianoforte.

Admission requirements
Audition candidates will be selected on the basis of a video recording to be submitted digitally via the application form. Recordings must be received by February 1st at the latest. The video repertoire consists of a diverse selection from the required audition repertoire of maximum 15 minutes.

A musical education at a professional level. A thorough and broad knowledge of keyboard instruments. Mastery of and affinity with the clavichord.

Audition repertoire

Preludium and Fuga from Das wohltemperierte Klavier
a sonata by C.Ph.E. Bach
three compositions from different style periods of the student’s choice, including a work from the 17th century, a keyboard suite and possibly a work from the 20th or 21st century.

The master's degree programme in clavichord must be viewed as a specialization originating from the more general field of 'historical keyboard instruments' (organ, harpsichord, pianoforte). As the clavichord and its repertoire are of central importance to the plan of study, the candidate has the opportunity to examine these in a much more extensive and thorough manner.

Bachelor's diploma in fortepiano, organ or harpsichord.

Audition repertoire

During the entrance examination, which will last approximately one half-hour, the candidate must demonstrate that he/she possesses an above-average affinity with and talent for the clavichord, an overview of the repertoire and a solid mastery of the various style areas.
It is essential that, preferably prior to commencement of his/her master's degree programme, the candidate exhibit a high degree of proficiency on at least one of the various types of clavichord (see principal study below).