anon.: Bergamasca

The reign of Elizabeth Tudor (1558-1603) brought with it a period of splendour for England, within which the lute experienced its moment of glory. In paintings from this time convivial scenes featuring performers of harp and lute are often depicted.

Well known melodies of the epoch, as well as harmonic sequences such as Bergamasca, Ruggiero, Callinoe, Conde Claros and various Dumps were used by performers when they gathered to improvise together. Sometimes the music was dedicated to a well known personality of the court such as was surely the case with 'The Queenes Good Night', inspiring sweet dreams for Elizabeth.

For this recording Marie Nishiyama and Rafael Bonavita have mixed the colours of harp and lute, the characteristics of each instrument to create a dialogue of sound between the two. A dialogue that goes – as does this repertoire – beyond epochs and styles.

Described as a “master of the art of baroque ornamentation” and praised for his “passionate and virtuosic performance”, Jonathan Talbott made his solo violin debut at the age of 16 and now performs a repertoire that spans more than 800 years. This recording is the perfect showcase for Jonathan Talbott talents and contains three world premiere virtuosic gems.

Delicate lute duets which conjure images of an expensively draped Tudor room where musicians play quietly in one corner as the fading winter sun streams through a stained glass window, creating colours and reflections which are mirrored in the twists, turns and melodies of this elegant music.

Cheerful music to cook by, featuring some of the best Baroque music ever! Put this album on in the kitchen, and let the inspiration fall upon you as you chop and grind, boil and fry! Twenty one tasty tracks to add an extra flavour to your methode de cuisine!

Features the typical instruments, composers and styles that were current in Elizabethan England. Dances (both courtly and rustic), songs, anthems, viol consorts, recorder consorts, lute solos and music for virginals, shawms, cornetts, curtals, etc. The album is a compilation drawn from our catalogue and serves as an excellent introduction to the fine music of this period.