Byrd's three Latin Masses include full Kyrie settings, which was rare for English Catholic Masses of that era, where troped Kyries were more common.
Historical Context
Byrd's life reflected the religious tensions of 16th-century England, as he maintained his Catholic faith while serving a Protestant monarch, Queen Elizabeth I.
Recording & Production
This album includes a 1981 recording of William Byrd's The Great Service by The Saint Thomas Choir, previously released only on LP.
Composer Biography
William Byrd's exact birth year is uncertain, with documents suggesting either 1539/1540 or that he was in his 80th year by 1622.
Composition History
Byrd, along with his mentor Thomas Tallis, was granted an exclusive license by Queen Elizabeth I to publish music in 1572.
Compositional Technique
Byrd's Mass for Four Voices shares strong musical motifs with John Taverner's Mean Mass, including rising step-wise and imitative figurations.
Performer Biography
The Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys, featured on this recording, is considered the leading Anglican choral ensemble in the United States.
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Motets for the Season of Christmas
Codex Speciálník
Gesualdo: Sacræ Cantiones
Merulo: Motets
Lejeune: Dix Pseaumes de David
Gesualdo: Sacrae Cantiones
Taverner: Missa Corona Spinea; Votive Antiphon: O Wilhelme Pastor Bone
