Abstract
Early recordings capture and preserve performance styles, traditions, and musical approaches of an age that has long since passed. Unsurprisingly, therefore, they have become widely acknowledged forms of evidence in both musicological research and historically informed performance practices. Despite this, the production of early recordings remains a mystery; very few researchers have considered how various technologies, recording contexts, and performance styles coalesce to produce recordings that were ultimately produced.
This chapter presents the findings of the three-year research project (Re)constructing Early Recordings: a guide for historically informed performance. This unique and highly experimental project focused on the production of early mechanical recordings, with the aim of understanding how performers adjusted their practice in response to the recording medium and broader recording process. In presenting and discussing a selection of recorded materials, this chapter explores various mechanical recording technologies used during the recording process and highlights ways in which technological and reconstructive contexts form a redefinition of strategies of documentation, influencing future readings of early recordings and historically informed practices.