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The Musicians at the Court of Maximilian I

Martin Kirnbauer

Considering the long list of instrumental musicians recorded in Maximilian’s account books—including, by the way, a female musician, “Lucia Torerin, lutenist,” although she did not hold a fixed position[10]—the trumpeters and drummers (who formed an ensemble) made up the largest group, followed by trombonists as well as pipers and drummers. These latter two groups also formed an ensemble responsible for both military duties and dance accompaniment.[11] DThe trombonists are occasionally mentioned alongside the trumpeters, but could also perform with other musicians. Additionally, several lutenists are listed, who played both solo and in ensemble. Finally, there is always an organist recorded. For many years this was Paul Hofhaimer (» C. Orgeln und Orgelmusik; » C. Musik für Tasteninstrumente und » I. Hofhaimer), who was generally associated with the “Canterey” or “chapel,” that is, the singers.

[10] She received 50 guilders “for her maintenance and living” in June 1520 when the court chapel was dissolved after Maximilian’s death; Koczirz 1930/31, 535.

[11] Such as “Hannsen pfeiffer vnnd matheusen Trumelschlacher”, who were expressly paid for their services “bei Tanz” at the 1491 carnival; Waldner, 1897/98, 52.