Giulio Cesare Barbetta (c.1540–c.1623) a 16th-century lutenist-composer from Padova, known for his virtuosic fantasias and dances that blend intri-cate counterpoint with vivid rhythmic character. This first-ever album devoted to his music, drawn from the 1582 Novae tabulae musicae testudinariae, features many world pre-miere recordings and reveals Barbetta’s inventive, expressive style. Mikiya Kaisho, an award-winning Japanese lutenist, transcribed and performs the works with exceptional artistry, creating a musical journey that celebrates the lute’s delicate resonance and historical richness.