Photo : Cliché CMA17
Clavichord concert at the Forney Library
Step away from the city buzz to experience the delicate, mesmerizing resonance of the piano's historical ancestor. Tucked inside a stunning heritage building, this performance revives ancient melodies that are rarely heard in such a personal setting. It is the perfect opportunity for history lovers to witness the magic of early keyboard artistry firsthand.
Bibliothèque Forney (Paris 4th)
About
Experience the delicate resonance of the clavichord at the Bibliothèque Forney on Tuesday, December 8, 2026. This rare musical event features Ilton Wjuniski, a professor at the Claude Debussy municipal conservatory, joined by his students for a recital exploring the history of this medieval keyboard ancestor. From 1529 lute dances to a contemporary world premiere by Jean-Yves Bosseur, discover an intimate soundscape in the heart of the 4th arrondissement. Participation is free, but advance booking is essential. Please note that this performance is open to guests aged 18 and over.
Inspired by the mechanism of the medieval monochord, the clavichord was likely invented during the 14th century, at the very moment when the first pieces composed specifically for a keyboard instrument appeared.
Considered the father of all keyboard instruments, the clavichord was present throughout Europe from the late Middle Ages to the Classical period. After a relative disappearance in the 19th century, it was reborn at the beginning of the 20th century in musical practice, teaching, and intimate concerts.
At that time, new instruments were even created, as is the case for the clavichord made by Marcel Asseman.
During this evening, Ilton Wjuniski, professor of clavichord at the Claude Debussy Municipal Conservatory (17th arrondissement), and his students will play 14 lute dances printed by Pierre Attaingnant in Paris in 1529 on this historic instrument and will premiere a new work composed expressly for this clavichord by Jean-Yves Bosseur.
Our take on this event
Step into the Bibliothèque Forney for an evening celebrating the clavichord, an instrument tracing its origins back to the 14th century. Long regarded as the foundation of all keyboard instruments, the clavichord experienced a significant 20th-century revival, notably through instruments crafted by makers like Marcel Asseman.
Running from 19:00 to 21:00 on December 8, 2026, the evening program highlights the technical versatility of this historic instrument. Ilton Wjuniski and his conservatory students will perform 14 lute dances originally printed in Paris by Pierre Attaingnant in 1529. The recital also serves as the debut for a new composition by Jean-Yves Bosseur, specifically commissioned for this clavichord.
Admission is free, though reservations are required to secure your attendance. This event is specifically intended for an audience aged 18 and older.
