About the music:
Francesca Caccini (18 September 1587 – after 1641) was an Italian composer, singer, lutenist, poet, and music teacher of the early Baroque era. She was also known by the nickname "La Cecchina" given to her by the Florentines and probably a diminutive of "Francesca." She was the daughter of Giulio Caccini. Her only surviving stage work, La liberazione di Ruggiero, is widely considered the oldest opera by a woman composer.
This arrangement uses repeated material in different permutations. Experiment with applying contrasting elements to each repeat. For example: staccato/legato, forte/piano, pizzicato/dolce.
As always, emphasize beautiful playing. Ask students to pay attention to tone, rhythmic precision and ensemble/togetherness
About the arranger:
Mariette Stephenson is a Canadian classical guitarist and arranger. As an active soloist and chamber musician, she has premiered works by many composers from Canada and beyond. In addition to collaborating with singers, flutists and other guitarists, Mariette has also worked in more unique ensembles, including guitar and organ as well as guitar and shakuhachi (A traditional Japanese wind instrument). With flutist Kelly Williamson, Mariette is the other half of Duo Calixa. Their work together has so far resulted in the release of their first CD Caminos featuring South American music. Mariette is also a member of the Ekleipsis Guitar trio.
Mariette earned her B.Mus from McMaster University under the tutelage of Dr. Jeffrey McFadden. She continued studies to receive an ARCT from the Royal Conservatory of Music. She also earned a Masters of Music (performance) from the University of Toronto. She is the recipient of the Eli Kassner Guitar Scholarship, a Fellowship at the University of Toronto, and a Bernice Adams Memorial Bursary. Mariette’s arrangements are available at Strings By Mail. She is serves as Music Director for the Kitchener-Waterloo Guitar Orchestra. Find out more at mariettestephenson.com.