James Holland
Lutenist
James Holland is an Australian born lutenist now living and teaching in Normandy, France. After years of playing with many top ensembles around Europe (Le Concert Spirituel, The Gabrielli Consort, Vox Luminus, among others), James has now decided to focus his musical endeavours on solo and chamber music works for the lute and theorbo; through giving recitals, making recordings, and creating videos for his Youtube channel, "James and his lutes". James has always adored teaching and continues this passion through teaching the lute at the Conservatoire de Dieppe.
James Holland est un luthiste né en Australie qui vit et enseigne actuellement en Normandie. Après avoir joué pendant des années avec de nombreux ensembles à travers l'Europe (Le Concert Spirituel, The Gabrielli Consort, Vox Luminus, entre autres), James se consacre désormais aux œuvres pour luth seul et en petite formation. Il donne ainsi des récitals, fait des enregistrements, et réalise des vidéos pour sa chaîne Youtube, "James and his lutes". Passionné par l'enseignement, il forme des musiciens au Conservatoire de Dieppe.
Different Types of Lutes from the 16th, 17th and 18th Centuries
Instruments made by Lars Jönsson
7 course renaissance lute after Gerle
The 7 course lute was first mentioned in 1511 by Virdung, but did not become popular until the last quarter of the 16th century. Perfect for most of John Dowland's works, along with other lute song composers. Earlier pieces by Francesco da Milano and others also work well on this instrument.
11 course baroque lute after Hans Frei
The 11 course d minor lute began it's popularity in France during the 17th century with composers such as Gaultier, Gallot and Mouton. Towards the end of the century its popularity waned in France, but it was enthusiastically welcomed in German speaking lands through composers such as Reusner and a young Weiss.
13 course baroque lute after Rauwolf
The 13 course baroque lute is very similar to the 11 course instrument but with 2 extra bass courses added. It was used in Germany during the 18th century and is perfect for the repertoire of Weiss, Falckenhagen and Bach.
Theorbo
The theorbo was invented in Italy around the end of the 16th century to accompany the voice. It flourished throughout the 17th century in Italy and later made its way to France where it was used well into the 18th century. Solo composers include Piccinini, Castaldi, Kapsberger and Robert de Visée.
