Studying harpsichord at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam: A Student's Story

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Three questions for Isabel Negrín Lopez, who plays the harpsichord and finished the master's degree programme in Basso Continuo at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. If you are curious to find out more, read about the bachelor's and master's programs in harpsichord and basso continuo at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam.
 

What stands out to you about the harpsichord programme at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam?
The amazing teachers and the way in which they complement each other so well. Menno van Delft, the principial subject teacher, is a great soloist. Kris Verhelst has extensive knowledge of basso continuo. Miklós Spanyi is specialized in historical improvisation and Goska Isphording focuses on modern harpsichord music. It’s a really diverse teaching staff. As students, we are also very different from one another, and the teachers help you find a path that matches who you are. This allows you to truly discover your own essence. 

What do you value most about this programme?
The highlight for me is the way in which you are encouraged to play with others. There are a lot of projects that connect different classes, so that you get the chance to meet musicians from other disciplines. You might accompany students from the baroque violin class, or play with the baroque symphony orchestra which rehearses every Friday. This really encourages students to create an Early music community. If you are curious, you could even collaborate with other departments, like the classical, pop, electronic music or jazz departments. I’ve been able to create special projects with colleagues who became friends. Finally, you can also broaden your skills by choosing elective courses. I personally really liked the baroque singing class, as an instrumentalist I learned so much from working with text and singers. 

How would you characterize the collection of harpsichords at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam?
The collection of harpsichords is incredibly varied and the differences between the instruments are huge. There are instruments with one or two keyboards, some with a rich and round sound, others with a more bright, crisp tone. The sound and characteristics differ greatly depending on where they were used. A harpsichord from France, for instance, would have a completely different character and sound compared to one from Italy. In a way, by playing these instruments, we also try to capture a glimpse of what those societies might have been like. 

Personally, my favorite harpsichord from the collection is the Kalsbeek harpsichord. I remember practising a lot of hours in the room where it's situated. It’s a really powerful instrument and kind of the diplomat among harpsichords—it can play all kinds of music. Every piece you play on it just sounds good!

 

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