Music inspires us. Many fiction writers, especially historical fiction find inspiration for stories and characters listening to the music of the era, or soundtracks from films set in the time period we are writing about. We discover that music as we wade through the volumes of research necessary to give the story veracity. Exploration invariably uncovers treasures in the arts and culture that can enrich our lives today
While exploring the culture of the late 15th and early 16th Centuries in Spain, the era of City of Liars, I discovered and amassed a collection of music. The images, tone, and ambience in my scenes were generated or influenced by that music. Music opens the creative well of the Muse and floods the imagination. That is how Aularia, ingenue of City of Liars came to play the salterio.
Origins The name salterio is the Spanish version of psaltery. Earliest references and images of a psaltery date from ancient Greece. It was a stringed instrument from the zither family and was plucked like a harp. However, by Medieval and Renaissance eras the psaltery featured in manuscripts, paintings, and sculptures is more of a dulcimer type instrument.
Preservationists. Historical research has enlarged my appreciation for musicians, ensembles, conductors, and music professors who have dedicated their careers to the preservation of early music and musical instruments. This includes Begona Olavide, Jordi Savall, and the Waverly Consort. I hope you will find inspiration and enjoyment from the music, too.
Check out these artists and music videos.