Voluntary and Lesson in English Music Sources of the 17th and 18th Centuries

The article focuses on the use Voluntary and Lesson as terms in English musical practice 17th 18th centuries. Based unique example of interpretation these synonyms edition Carl Trinks’s organ pieces 1810 (this fact is remained unnoticed musicology), author compares Lesson, noting, first all, significant differences specific names compositions also paying attention to reflection this general lexicographic sources that time. criticizes a number ideas have already been established Western musicology. For example, he does not agree with small fragment from “Mulliner Book” entitled Voluntarye an independent keyboard piece by R. Farrant, doubts real existence 12-movement J. Ch. Pepush’s (published only 1988) single work. But most importantly, opposes spread concept all polyphonic works composers centuries (including M. Locke’s “Melothesia”, many Th. Roseingrave’s fugues, etc.). notes term was used more variously than modern musicology interprets, extending solo (mainly keyboard) music, but for melodic instruments basso continuo even ensembles, well instructive exercises simple beginners.