Introduction

“Bianco Fiore,” composed by Cesare Negri and transcribed by Oscar Chilesotti, is a standout piece in the celebrated collection “Six Lute Pieces of the Renaissance.” Negri, a renowned Italian composer and choreographer of the late Renaissance, originally crafted this work for the lute, an instrument integral to the musical culture of his time. Chilesotti, an accomplished 19th-century musicologist and guitarist, meticulously transcribed “Bianco Fiore” for classical guitar, preserving its historical essence while making it accessible to modern guitarists.

This piece, characterized by its elegant melody and intricate counterpoint, encapsulates the refined artistry of the Renaissance era. The transcription for classical guitar highlights the instrument’s ability to convey the lute’s delicate, expressive nuances. “Bianco Fiore” offers guitarists an opportunity to explore the rich textures and sophisticated harmonies typical of Renaissance music, while also demanding a high level of technical skill and interpretative sensitivity.

As part of the “Six Lute Pieces of the Renaissance,” this piece stands as a testament to Chilesotti’s dedication to reviving and popularizing early music. It allows contemporary performers and audiences to experience the timeless beauty and intricate craftsmanship of Renaissance compositions through the versatile and evocative voice of the classical guitar.

This piece is the second in the collection. All six pieces in playing order are:

• Vaghe belleze et bionde treccie d’oro vedi che per ti moro

• Bianco fiore

• Danza

• Gagliarda

• Se io m’accorgo

• Saltarello

Musical Style

Cesare Negri’s musical style is deeply rooted in the late Renaissance period, characterized by its elegant and sophisticated dance forms. As a composer and choreographer, Negri’s works often reflect a seamless blend of music and dance, showcasing rhythmic precision and melodic grace. His compositions frequently employ intricate counterpoint and ornamentation, highlighting the technical prowess of the performers while maintaining a sense of refined beauty and expressiveness. Negri’s contributions to dance music are particularly notable, as he meticulously documented various dance styles and techniques in his comprehensive treatises, which have been invaluable resources for understanding Renaissance dance and music

Notable Pieces

Five of Cesare Negri’s most notable pieces are:

• Bianco Fiore

• Lo Spagnoletto

• Il Torneo Amoroso

• La Barriera

• Cecchina Corrente

Let your fingers fly!

Josh