Visiting timetable09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
|Saturday, February 28, 2026Piazza della Scala, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Back to museum
instruments
Clavicembalus and Early Opera at La Scala
A focused look at the clavicembalus and what it reveals about early opera continuo practice at La Scala.
1/9/2026
12 min read
The clavicembalus anchors continuo culture—harmonic glue and gesture timing.
🔍 What It Reveals
- Tuning temperaments: Period-appropriate temperaments and intonation.
- Ensemble balance: Texture and support for vocal lines.
Instruments narrate practice, not just possession.
[^temperament]: Notes reference Vallotti and well-tempered systems used in archives.
🧭 Practice & Ensemble
- Continuo placement: Balances audibility and blend.
- Cueing: Supports recitatives and tempo.
📊 Temperament Snapshot
| System | Use | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Vallotti | Baroque | Colorful keys |
| Well‑tempered | Classical | Evenness |
❓ FAQ
- Is tuning fixed? Depends on programme and period.
- Why display keyboards? They show craft lineage.
✅ Key Takeaways
- The clavicembalus is structure in sound.
- Temperament choices are aesthetic decisions.
About the Author
Musicologist
As a Milan devotee and music lover, I created this guide to help visitors feel the spirit of La Scala — from grand premieres to the quiet craft behind the curtain.
Tags
Clavicembalus
Early Opera
Continuo
Instruments
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Loading comments...