Christopher Tye (ca. 1505-ca. 1572), whose extensive 'In nomine' oeuvre is featured, was a church musician with a double doctorate from Cambridge and Oxford, and served as Master of the choristers at Ely Cathedral.
Historical Context
English composers of religious music, including Christopher Tye, faced pressure to adapt their careers to the fluctuating religious affiliations during the creation of the Anglican Church and temporary returns to Catholicism.
Instruments
The Schnitzer family of instrument makers, particularly Sigmund I, was known for their 'oversized flutes' and gained renown across Europe, including in Rome, Italy, and France.
Composition History
Many compositions in the 'booke of In nomines' are based on the 'In nomine' cantus firmus, a melody from John Taverner's (1490-1445) Mass 'Gloria tibi Trinitas', specifically from the Sanctus section.
Instruments
The Renaissance recorders used for this recording are copies of original instruments made by the Schnitzer family from Nuremberg, Germany, who were active instrument makers in the first half of the 16th century.
Compositional Technique
John Taverner's 'In nomine' was a compositional innovation, transforming a six-part mass passage into a four-voice setting with the choral melody in the alto part, which inspired many other composers.
Interpretation
The manuscript 'booke of In nomines & other solfainge songes' (GB-Lbm Add. 31390, c.1578), from which most pieces on this album come, suggests an intimate performance setting where musicians gather around a table.
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