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The Honour of William Byrd

Composer William Byrd
Performer Helen Charlston
Chelys Consort of Viols
Period Renaissance
Catalogue Number BIS-2663 SACD
EAN 7318599926636
Format SACD Hybrid

This hybrid disc plays on both CD and SACD players
SACD Surround - SACD Stereo - CD Stereo

Release date Jul 2023
Total time 74'51

Instrumental and vocal music from the late Renaissance
This disc provides an opportunity to explore the music of the proud Englishman, the devoted friend, the loyal subject, and the faithful servant that was William Byrd, on the occasion of the 400th anniversary of his death. Through a collection of songs and instrumental works performed by the Chelys Consorts of Viols joined by tenor violist Harry Buckoke and mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston, this recording introduces this key figure of the English Renaissance music: both devoutly Catholic and a favourite of the Protestant Queen, a serious character capable of weighty contemplation but also sharp wit and humour, and &&&the loyal friend who wrote so personally and touchingly.

Beginning with Thou poet’s friend, a celebration of the union of poetry and music, the ensemble’s carefully chosen works are in turn gay, sad, religious and secular, culminating in one of the best and most moving consort songs ever composed, Ye sacred Muses, a tribute to Thomas Tallis, Byrd’s teacher, colleague and friend. The seven instrumental pieces showcase Byrd’s inventiveness with their unexpected runs, cross-rhythms, daring harmonies, lively dances and the joy of sheer virtuosity.
 
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01 Thou poet's friend 2'04
02 In nomine à4 No. 1 2'43
03 Wretched Albinus 2'25
04 Fantasia à6 No. 2 5'12
05 With lilies white 4'50
06 Fantasia à5: Browning 'The Leaves be Greene' 4'01
07 This sweet and merry month of May 2'50
08 O Lord, make thy servant, Elizabeth 2'21
09 All as a sea, the world no other is 3'20
10 Fantasia à5: Two Parts in One in the Fourth Above 5'16
11 Come to me, grief, for ever 5'47
12 Sellenger's Round 4'42
13 Blessed is he that fears the Lord 5'35
14 Why do I use my paper, ink and pen 7'21
15 Fantasia à6 No. 1 3'24
16 Ah silly soul 2'48
17 Rejoice unto the Lord 3'19
18 Fantasia à4 No. 1 2'49
19 Ye sacred Muses 3'54
  Album total 74'51
ComposerByrd, William
Mezzo sopranoCharlston, Helen
Chamber ensembleChelys
ArrangerBergmann, Walter

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