Ballatas and madrigals during the Signoria of Paolo Guinigi (15th Century)

Ballatas and madrigals during the Signoria of Paolo Guinigi (15th century)A reconstruction in modern times of musical life during the Guinigi rule in Lucca presents a considerable number of objective difficulties. Paolo Guinigi was a prototype of the renaissance lord: a patron and champion of culture, he successfully governed for thirty years with magnanimity and mercy. Although he was a lover of art and music, no concrete traces have survived of the artistic circle, which surrounded him within the palace. And yet the celebrations of four marriages and the numerous and lavish receptions which he offered to illustrious dignitaries lead us to assume that eminent musical figures of the time must certainly have been in his service.Nonetheless, indirect testimony has assisted us in reconstructing the musical circle known to and admired by the Guinigis. A primary source is the writings (the Croniche and the Novelle). of Giovanni Sercambi, supporter and advisor to the Guinigi family for many years.