拜爾德的榮耀 - 歌曲集
海倫.查爾斯頓 女中音
奇爾斯維奧爾琴合奏團

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, acelebration of the union of poetry and music, the ensemble's carefully chosen works are inturngay, sad, religious and secular, culminating in one of the best and most moving consort songs ever composed, Ye sacred Muses, a tributeto 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.

William Byrd (c. 1540—1623)

1 ) Thou poet''s friend
2 ) In nomine a4 No. 1
3 ) Wretched Albinus
4 ) Fantasia a6 No. 2
5 ) With lilies white
6 ) Fantasia a5: Browning ''The Leaves be Greene''
7 ) This sweet and merry month of May
8 ) O Lord, make thy servant, Elizabeth
9 ) All as a sea, the world no other is
10 ) Fantasia a5: Two Parts in One in the Fourth Above
11 ) Come to me, grief, for ever
12 ) Sellenger''s Round
13 ) Blessed is he that fears the Lord
14 ) Why do I use my paper, ink and pen
15 ) Fantasia a6 No. 1
16 ) Ah silly soul
17 ) Rejoice unto the Lord
18 ) Fantasia a4 No. 1
19 ) Ye sacred Muses

TT: 74''51

Chelys Consort of Viols
Helen Charlston, mezzo-soprano [tracks 1, 3, 5, 7—9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17 & 19]
Harry Buckoke tenor viol [tracks 4 & 15]