The sounds of the 70s (the 1670s) are heard at Tabley House

29 Jul 2013

A first-time collaboration between The Tabley House Collection, Knutsford, and Warrington Museum and Art Gallery took place this month to promote and preserve the historic musical instruments in their care.

Pupils from Lymm High School receiving a virginal tutorial from Charlotte Turner

Both heritage institutions are lucky to have virginals (a predecessor to the harpsichord) in working order and have developed a joint project to develop knowledge of the instruments and their unique sound. The project will see Culture Warrington’s virginal undergo conservation prior to featuring in the new 'Cabinet of Curiosities' gallery opening in January 2014.

Whilst this instrument is under the care of specialist restorers, the virginals at Tabley were recorded to provide the musical backdrop to the exhibition. This gave the two museums the chance to work with students from Lymm High School. A video recording of the event features the instruments being played, joined by pupils studying ‘A’ level music and music technology. Both the video and sound recordings will be utilised by students this year and as a reference for subsequent school projects.

In support were historic instrument specialists, Charlotte Turner, who played pieces by Purcell, Byrd, Gibbons and others for the recording, then led some exercises with the music students, and Alex Temple, a specialist technician for early keyboard instruments who talked about early keyboard instruments.

The Tabley House Collection has the oldest instrument with an Italian virginal c.1598. The second instrument is an English virginal made in 1671 by Philip Jones of London. Culture Warrington’s virginal by Thomas Bolton dates from 1684.

Clare Pye, Chair of The Tabley House Collection Trust, said “The virginals here at Tabley are often commented upon by visitors who are astonished that instruments of this age not only survive but are played in concerts on a regular basis. This project is a great opportunity to introduce their wonderful sound to young musicians and we hope the experience encourages them to find out more about early music.”

The Tabley instruments are on display at the Tabley House Collection Thursday to Sunday from 2pm to 5pm, April – October. University staff can access The Tabley House Collection free of charge on production of a staff card.