Janet Lucille Wanzek Performance Hall, National Music Museum, Vermillion, SD

Step into the vibrant Roman Baroque sound world as harpsichordists Nathan Mondry and Nicola Canzano bring to life the music of Bernardo Pasquini, Arcangelo Corelli, and their contemporaries—while also exploring new works inspired by the same traditions. This inventive program highlights the expressive possibilities of two of the National Music Museum’s historic treasures: the Ridolfi harpsichord (NMM 04657) and the Anonymous Italian harpsichord (NMM 03870). Audiences will encounter solo sonatas, trio sonatas, double-harpsichord works, improvisations, and newly composed music—all woven together into a program that ensures every piece is a “never-before-heard” experience.

A professional organist, harpsichordist, and fortepianist, Nathan Mondry has gained international recognition for his improvisation and composition. A graduate of the University of Michigan, McGill University, the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, and The Juilliard School, he has received commissions from ensembles and institutions across Europe and North America. He is also co-founder of the ensembles Nuova Pratica and Les Barocudas, the latter twice nominated for Juno Awards.

Nicola Canzano, a composer, harpsichordist, and organist, is widely respected for his expertise in historical improvisation and composition. He serves as studio accompanist for Historical Performance at The Juilliard School, where he also lectures on fugal improvisation, and was adjunct faculty at Michigan State University. As co-founder of Nuova Pratica, Canzano collaborates regularly with Mondry and colleagues to compose and perform original repertoire for period instruments. His performances across the U.S. and abroad highlight his artistry as both a continuo player and soloist.

Together, Mondry and Canzano invite audiences to experience the imaginative richness of the Roman Baroque—revived through historic instruments and infused with contemporary creativity.

The NMM Live! Series is made possible by the USD Student Government Association and the South Dakota Arts Council through the Department of Tourism, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

About the Instruments

Ridolfi Harpsichord (ca. 1660–1690) – Rome, Italy
Attributed to Giacomo Ridolfi
Single-manual harpsichord with two 8' stops, this instrument combines fine craftsmanship—boxwood naturals, cypress arcades, and ivory accents—with the elegance of Roman harpsichord building. Later converted to a piano mechanism in the 18th century, it retains its original outer case and refined character.
Purchase funds gift of Margaret Ann and Hubert H. Everist, 1989. NMM 04657

Anonymous Italian Harpsichord (ca. 1675–1725) – Italy
A rare Italian instrument featuring a single manual with three 8' registers, allowing for unusual tonal richness and flexibility. While rococo decoration was added later, the original lid painting may survive, connecting it directly to its late 17th-century origins.
Rawlins Fund, 1985.  NMM 03870