Clavicembalus and Early Opera at La Scala

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

❓ 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.