The album title, "Mixed Company," refers to the collaboration between two ensembles from different countries and the interplay of contemporary Danish and 17th-century English music.
Compositional Technique
Several pieces on the album, including "Song," "Play," and "Company," are strongly connected, with "Song" and "Play" forming "Company" when heard conjoined.
Composition History
The music on this album by Pelle Gudmundsen-Holmgreen, a contemporary Danish composer, is inspired by John Dowland's famous song "Flow my tears" (Lacrimae), which Dowland likely composed in Denmark.
Performer Biography
The London Sinfonietta, founded in 1968, is dedicated to contemporary classical music, has commissioned over 300 works, and is known for its high-standard performances and educational work.
Performer Biography
Paul Hillier, the conductor, has had a diverse career as a singer, conductor, and author, receiving an OBE, the Order of the White Star of Estonia, and two GRAMMY Awards.
Performer Biography
Theatre of Voices, founded by Paul Hillier, is a renowned vocal group that presents a wide range of contemporary music, often juxtaposed with early music, and has won a GRAMMY Award.
Historical Context
John Dowland, an English lutenist and composer, served the Danish king Christian IV for two years, and his song "Flow my tears" expresses a feeling of 'melancholy' or estrangement.
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