The cornett
was the most popular wind instrument of the 16th to early 17th centuries, coming closer in sound, they agreed at the time, 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 this instrument 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…
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