pardessus

Meaning of Pardessus in Music

In the context of music, **pardessus** refers to a specific type of musical instrument called the "pardessus de viole." It is a small treble-range viol, which was invented in France in the mid-17th century. The pardessus de viole was likely created to allow women to play music that was originally intended for newly popular violins and flutes. French luthiers, such as Nicolas Bertrand, made modifications to the instrument by adding a seventh string, expanding its range and improving its capabilities for rich sonorities and expressive playing.

Composers like Jean-Baptiste Barrière, Georg Philipp Telemann, and Marin Marais wrote solo and ensemble pieces specifically for the treble or pardessus de viole It was also common to play music originally composed for violins or flutes on small viols like the pardessus de viole.

The pardessus de viole was popular in France during the 18th century, especially among women musicians It offered a higher range compared to other viols, making it suitable for playing melodies in the treble register. The instrument's small size and delicate sound made it well-suited for chamber music and intimate settings.

Historic viols, including the pardessus de viole, can be found in collections of historic musical instruments at museums and universities.

ConclusionThe term "pardessus" in music refers to the pardessus de viole, a small treble-range viol invented in France in the 17th century. It was designed to allow women to play music originally intended for violins and flutes. Composers wrote specific pieces for the pardessus de viole, and it was popular in France during the 18th century. Historic examples of the pardessus de viole can be found in collections of musical instruments at various institutions.