Figured Bass Workshop with David Schrader
Sunday, April 21, 2024
First United Methodist Church, Evanston
Members were treated to an insightful lecture on the history and practice of figured bass presented by David Schrader in the historic Sanctuary of First United Methodist Church, Evanton the afternoon of Sunday, April 21. Dean Robert Woodworth introduced the program and remarked that it has been just under a year since the North Shore Chapter hosted the festive opening service of the regional convention in this venue. First United’s Music Director / North Shore Board Member Brian Schoettler introduced the church’s versatile continuo organ, Fisk. Op. 156 (2021), which has 1 manual, 7 ranks, and 297 pipes.
David Schrader began with the origins of continuo in the harmonic developments of the 16th century. He noted that Monteverdi had used figures, and also commented on Schutz and Muffat. He recommended the book Bach’s Continuo Group, by Laurence Dreyfus (Harvard University Press). He mentioned Veracini, Corelli, C.P.E. Bach, the Masses of Mozart (with the exception of the C Minor), and Handel’s oratorios. He touched on the gradual disuse of continuo, as repertoire focused on piano and memorization, but noted that Beethoven included a part in his Missa Solemnis.
We were provided with several practical tips from Quantz and other historical sources, including the importance of considering the vocal line and the number of voices chosen for the chords. Other practical advice included playing from the score or vocal score, and being careful with edited editions. The often misunderstood term tasto solo instructs the player to “do what the cello or bass is doing.”
In response to a question about study materials, he provided us with several titles, including: The Art of Accompaniment from a Thorough-Bass by F.T. Arnold, Figured Bass for Beginners, by Helen Keaney, Continuo Playing According to Handel (Ledbetter), and Figured Harmony at the Keyboard, by R. O. Morris.
The North Shore Chapter is grateful to David for once again sharing his knowledge and expertise with us once again, following up on his workshop at the Regional Convention.
Submitted by James Janossy, Board Secretary