Through close examination of Mss.2803-4 in the Pepys Library of Magdalene College, Cambridge, this case study identifies some challenges that Samuel Pepys (1633-1703) seems to have faced as an amateur musician studying the stile rappresentativo under the tutelage of Cesare Morelli (fl.1670s-1686), specifically relating to vocal range and thoroughbass accompaniment. Morelli transcribed the music in both manuscripts during a period of exile from London and, as I argue, was almost certainly unable to teach Pepys in person at that time. His transcriptions thus preserve in writing many musical adjustments and suggestions that might not have been documented so thoroughly had he been able to communicate with Pepys face-to-face. Thanks to Pepys's unusually well-curated library, his separation from Morelli, and the close relationship between Mss.2803 and 2804, as well as the precision with which we can infer the audience for, and use of, both manuscripts, Mss.2803-4 bear greatly on our understanding of Pepys's musical performance style and, more broadly, the introduction of Italian musical practices into English homes after the Restoration. Additionally, an appendix reproduces two previously untranslated letters from Morelli to Pepys, revealing that the two shared a tumultuous professional and personal relationship. © The Author 2017.

Gb-Cmc Mss.2803-4 Restoration England Pietro Reggio Cesare Morelli Samuel Pepys Pepys Library

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