Going back to the sources, the Mary Burwell lute book (about 1670) says in chapter 16
. . . . [8] It is a disgrace for the lute to play country dances, songs or corants of violins, as likewise to play tricks with one's lute - to play behind the back etc. [9] The lute is a noble instrument, not made for debaucheries, ranting or playing in the street to give serenadas to Signora Isabella. 'Tis a grave and serious music for modest and sober persons, and for the cabinet rather than for a public place. [10] . . . To make people dance with the lute it is improper; it is true a young lady may dance a saraband with her lute, and that is all, It is neither proper to sing with the lute, it being a perfect consort of itself. . . . . . . . [Thurston Dart's transcription of the Burwell lute book - GSJ 1953(?)] I guess that just about sorts it out for all us 'modest and sober persons' . . . ;o) Bill PS Of course that is puritan England in 1670 - Who knows what things were like in other places and at other times? -- To get on or off this list see list information at http://www.cs.dartmouth.edu/~wbc/lute-admin/index.html
