Jean Newton

Master of Music, harpsichord, Aaron Copland School, Queens College, C.U.N.Y.; Ph.D, Graduate School and University Center, C.U.N.Y.

Harpsichord, Chamber Ensembles

Faculty since 2005

New York, New York

New York recital Debut at Merkin Concert Hall in 1983, including the world premiere of David Alpher’s American Reflections. Performances in the New York area with the New York Baroque Ensemble, Cantabile Chamber Players, Bronx Arts Ensemble, New York String Ensemble, Concert Artist Guild productions. Appearances at Weill Recital Hall, 92nd Street YMHA, Bruno Walter Auditorium (Lincoln Center Library), Deutsches Haus-Goethe Institute, Manhattan School of Music, Yale University, Christ & St. Stephen’s Church and others. Dr. Newton has recorded for Ongaku Records. A specialist in historical tuning and temperaments, Dr. Newton was harpsichord and fortepiano tuner for artists such as Leonard Bernstein, Malcom Bilson, and Steven Lubin, and at venues such as Alice Tully Hall, Manhattan School of Music and others. She formerly taught at Manhattan School of Music, and Queens College (City University of New York).

Most harpsichord students have previously played piano, so I emphasize how to make music sound beautiful and expressive on the harpsichord, which is fundamentally very different from the piano. I also focus on developing a solid technique and an understanding of musical structure, as well as historical context. The harpsichord had an important role in chamber music, and I encourage students to join an ensemble. It’s a challenge to try your hand at playing continuo, but it’s an amazing and joyful experience to play music with others.