Masterclasses HIP

If conservatory students do not opt for a specialization in early music, they usually play young instruments, following contemporary interpretations. Getting into Historically Informed Performance (HIP) is a leap of faith for them. With HIP, the musician tries to render the music as intended by the composer. That means playing with a different interpretation, using instruments from around the time the piece was composed. Bernadette Verhagen coaches stringplayers in their quest for HIP.

What does a HIP masterclass add to a conservatory education?

"A lot," Bernadette responds with conviction. "The basis of HIP is in-depth research into musical sources and the authentic instruments and equipment. But it's more than simply gaining knowledge and picking up a different instrument. We often see that musicians enter a completely new spectrum new when they embrace HIP. It really is something special. It changes the way you experience music. And there is simply not always enough time for this in the regular conservatory curriculum."

What is the first major change during such a masterclass?

"The strings. As soon as the instrument is equipped with natural gut strings and participants hold a baroque or classical bow in their hands, everything changes. Nothing is as it used to be. Playing gut strings requires a different technique, the bow is usually much lighter and the balance is totally different. At first it sounds all squeaky and scratchy. And you need to tune quite often because the strings are new and sensitive to humidity."

"In addition, the series of overtones are different in gut strings than they are in nylon or steel strings. It is much more difficult to hear the intonation. That can be very strange, you start to doubt the strings or your own ears. But after a few days you get used to it. You are more and more able to play with the sound, without having to vibrate so much. The harmonies become clearer and allow for a new kind of intonation. Vibrato won’t save you here, each note must be spot-on right away. Your bowing technique changes."

What's so great about Historically Informed Performance?

"Even the most famous pieces by Bach, Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven and Brahms sound different from what you've ever heard. Like new. Compare it to the Sistine Chapel before and after restoration. The picture is whole again and the colours are vibrant. As Michelangelo intended."

What is the most important learning?

"The best part is when at some point a student hears when something is perfectly on pitch. They discover what you need to do to make it sound sonorous and rich in overtones. Then you have real depth of tone. That makes me truly happy!"
 

In the summer of 2017, Bernadette will teach Masterclasses HIP.

July 30- August 5 2017
Academie für alte Musik, Brunico

This masterclass centers around authentic baroque music, "Wassermusik".