Jeremy West is one of the few people alive today making a living from the 17th Century cornett (cornetto, Zink). His working life encompasses performance with His Majestys Sagbutts & Cornetts; teaching at The Royal College of Music and Trinity College of Music, London as well as privately; instrument manufacture with Christopher Monk Instruments; and most recently with the publication of interesting, newly researched repertoire for the instrument and its various ensemble possibilities.
The cornett was the most popular wind instrument of its day, coming closer in sound, according to contemporary reports, to the human voice than any other. Curiously and sadly its popularity waned during the second half of the 17th century and eventually it died out altogether. The cornett is, however, making a serious comeback and Jeremy West is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of this revival.
In 1636 the sound of the cornett was described as
“like a ray of sunshine piercing the shadows, when heard with the choir voices in the cathedrals or chapels”
It is now possible once more to enjoy the beauty of this instrument, along with many of its counterparts, in a variety of ways…listening at home; listening at concerts or workshops; playing yourself; reading from original notation and attending informal courses; even having your own instrument…
- Jeremy West
- Biography ~ photographs
- Christopher Monk Instruments (CMI)
- Cornetti ~ Serpents ~ Historical Oboes ~ Mouthpieces ~ Accessories
- His Majestys Sagbutts & Cornetts (HMSC)
- Biographies ~ History ~ photographs ~ programmes etc.
- Recordings
- HMSC ~ Jeremy West as soloist
- Contact