Album Description

The Psalmes, Songs and Sonnets of 1611 was William Byrd’s final publication. And what a superbly fitting culmination to a lifetime of musical service it is! As well as being packed with variety and invention – including both sacred and secular music and using a range of forces from small trios to consorts to full choir – it is probably the happiest, most serene collection of music Byrd ever produced. 

The Sixteen is joined by celebrated viol consort, Fretwork, for this complete recording of William Byrd's 1611 Psalmes, Songs and Sonnets.

Double Album

GRAMOPHNE ALBUM OF THE MONTH NOVEMBER 2022
Read the full review here

Artists

The Sixteen
Fretwork
Harry Christophers

Track Listing

Volume 1:

1. The eagle's force
2. Of flattering speech 
3. In winter cold 
4. Whereat an ant 
5. Who looks may leap
6. Sing ye to our Lord a new song 
7. I have been young, but now am old 
8. In crystal towers 
9. This sweet and merry month of May 
10. Let not the sluggish sleep 
11. A feigned friend 
12. Awake mine eyes 
13. Come jolly Swains
14. What is life, or worldly pleasure? 
15. Fantasia (in 4 parts) 
16. Come let us rejoice unto our Lord 
17. Retire my soul, consider thine estate 
18. Arise Lord into thy rest
19. Come woeful Orpheus 

Volume 2:

1. Sing we merrily unto God
2. Blow up the trumpet 
3. Crowned with flowers 
4. Wedded to will is witless 
5. Make we joy to God 
6. Have mercy upon me O God 
7. Fantasia (in 6 parts) 
8. This day Christ was born 
9. O God that guides the cheerful sun 
10. Praise our Lord all ye Gentiles
11. Turn our captivity, O Lord 
12. Ah silly soul
13. How vain the toils 

Total Run Time: 89.55