Diminutions

The second album of German harpist Maximilian Ehrhardt on Carpe Diem Records is a unique concept album of music for the rare Italian "Arpa Doppia", a chromatic harp from the 17th Century. As there are only a few original compositions known for this instrument, the intention of this project was to invent a new repertoire for the Italian chromatic harp and to utilise the instrument's special tonal and technical characteristics to build a bridge between the past and the present. Six compositions from the 17th century are being complemented by six contemporary works that pay reference to their original templates in very different and fascinating ways. This harp album is a totally new musical experience, both imaginative and daring, and will hopefully contribute to the recognition of a wonderful, almost forgotten instrument.