Byrd 1588: Psalmes, Sonets & Songs of Sadnes and Pietie

Featuring

Grace Davidson
Martha McLorinan
Nicholas Todd
David Skinner
Fretwork
Alamire

William Byrd

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Historical Context

The year 1588, when Byrd's collection was published, was a time of great political and religious polarization in England, marked by events like the execution of Mary Queen of Scots and the victory over the Spanish Armada.

Interpretation

William Byrd's 1588 songs were originally intended for instruments with one voice, but he adapted them for a cappella voices, or for voices and instruments, or viols alone, a flexibility reflected in this recording.

Composition History

William Byrd's 1588 publication, 'Psalmes, Sonets, & songs', was his first solo publication and followed a thirteen-year silence in terms of his own music being published.

Recording & Production

This recording is the first complete recording of William Byrd's 1588 collection, which contains 35 songs.

Composer's Artistic Vision

William Byrd, a Catholic sympathiser, published these songs in 1588 with the hope they would help heal the divide and soothe the souls of both Protestants and Catholics.

Composer's Artistic Vision

William Byrd was a strong advocate for singing, believing it to be delightful, good for health, strengthening for the chest, a remedy for speech impediments, and the best way to honor God.

Composition History

The 1588 collection was dedicated to Sir Christopher Hatton, who was Elizabeth I's Lord Chancellor and became exceedingly wealthy due to the queen's fondness for him.