Michael East, an English composer and organist, was one of the most published composers of his time, with seven books of his compositions printed.
Composition History
This album includes a new commission by composer Jill Jarman, a 21st-century addition to the repertoire that sums up the journey of East's fantasias from 'Desperavi' to 'Amavi'.
Interpretation
The performers on this album utilize the flexible instrumentation suggested by East, with parts doubled, taken solely by a viol, solely by a voice, or a combination of both.
Compositional Technique
East's fantasias often feature sections for a smaller number of parts, such as without the bass viol, and sections where instruments begin together like a madrigal, rather than fugally.
Historical Context
The Fourth Book of Michael East, from which most vocal items on this album are taken, was published in 1618, exactly 400 years before this recording.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The title page of East's Fourth Book indicates that the entire collection, including anthems, madrigals, and other songs, is "apt for viols and voyces," suggesting a flexible approach to instrumentation.
Compositional Technique
East's 5-part fantasias for viols are unusual because each has a Latin title that traces a path from despair to love, suggesting they were conceived as a set.
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