Byrd: Complete Harpsichord and Organ Music

Belder, Pieter-Jan

97074

William Byrd (c.1540-1623) was an English composer of late Renaissance music. Considered among the greatest composers of the Renaissance, he had a profound influence on composers both from his native England and on the continent. On his death, he was reported in the records of the Chapel Royal as ‘father of Music’. He wrote in many of the forms current in England at the time, including various types of sacred and secular polyphony, keyboard (the so-called Virginalist school), and consort music. His keyboard music is of the highest order, it includes dances like the Gaillard and Pavan, Voluntaries and sets of variations on songs.

Byrd's harpsichord pieces, notable for their intricate counterpoint and rich harmonies, reveal his deep understanding of keyboard technique and his ability to convey intricate emotions through his music. His organ works exhibit a sense of grandeur and solemnity, capturing the ecclesiastical atmosphere of the time. The collection "My Ladye Nevells Booke" stands as a testament to his prowess, offering a varied selection of keyboard pieces.

Byrd's exploration of polyphony and chromaticism within the confines of his keyboard compositions reflects his remarkable skill and artistic innovation. His complete harpsichord and organ music remain an invaluable treasure trove, offering a glimpse into the soul of Renaissance England's musical genius.

This set presents a new recording of the complete organ music, the complete works from the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book and the complete Ladye Nevells Booke.

Pieter-Jan Belder is one of the world’s foremost keyboard players, with an astonishing number of CDs to his name: the complete Scarlatti Sonatas, Bach keyboard works, Rameau, Soler, Duphly, Marais, CPE Bach, Corelli, Purcell, Telemann, the complete Fitzwilliam Virginal Book...to be continued. Critics praise his versatility, his innate feeling for style, his impeccable technique: “Superb keyboard artistry and consummate technique” (MusicWeb), “alive, fresh-sounding and thoroughly engaged..” (Fanfare), “The most vital Bach performances of the moment” (Volkskrant).

https://www.brilliantclassics.com/articles/b/byrd-complete-harpsichord-and-organ-music/

CD x 9

Brilliant Classics

2.11.2023

5028421970745