Spatial dispositions in English instrumental consort music, c.1575–1650: a further examination

Abstract

Abstract Musical sources in table format show the various dispositions of performers around the table prescribed by composers, scribes and printers. Examination of the instrumental printed sources and the textless manuscript sources shows that a majority conform to three principles that foster aural clarity and good ensemble. Previous work indicated that the music itself, whether transmitted in table format or in partbooks, was sometimes composed with such dispositions in mind. Seating arrangements that embody the three principles are therefore advantageous in private performance and rehearsal; and for performance before an audience, with performers ranged in an arc rather than in a circle, suitable modification can achieve similar results.