"Birds on Fire: Jewish Music for Viols" by Fretwork is a captivating exploration of the intersection between Jewish musical traditions and the rich repertoire of the viol consort. Released in 2008 under the Harmonia Mundi label, this album offers a unique blend of medieval and chamber music, spanning a total of 25 tracks and a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes.
Fretwork, a renowned viol ensemble based in London, presents a meticulously curated collection that includes both original compositions and arrangements. The album features works such as "Birds on Fire: I.," "Hashkivénu [Prayer]," and "Shir hamma'alót [Psalm 128]," alongside pieces from the Lumley Part Books and Fantasias in various parts. The ensemble's mastery of the viol is evident in every track, delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive.
The album delves into the historical context of Jewish musicians at the Tudor court, offering a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of musical history. Fretwork's interpretation of these pieces is both scholarly and innovative, making "Birds on Fire" a standout release in their discography. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Tracks
Birds on Fire: I.Orlando Gough, Fretwork
Hashkivénu [Prayer]Salomone Rossi, Fretwork, Jeremy Avis
Pieces from the Lumley Part Books: I. DesperadaAnonymous, Fretwork
Pieces from the Lumley Part Books: II. PavanaAnonymous, Fretwork
Pieces from the Lumley Part Books: III. GallyardAnonymous, Fretwork
Pieces from the Lumley Part Books: IV. Seconda DesperadaAnonymous, Fretwork
Pieces from the Lumley Part Books: V. Pavin of AlbartiAlbert Kellim, Fretwork
Pieces from the Lumley Part Books: VI. Gallyard of AlbartiAlbert Kellim, Fretwork
Pieces from the Lumley Part Books: Terza DesperadaAnonymous, Fretwork
Two Sinfonias in 5 Parts: No. 5Leonora Duarte, Fretwork
Two Sinfonias in 5 Parts: No. 6, Octave toniLeonora Duarte, Fretwork
Fantasia in 6 parts: No. 1Thomas Lupo, Fretwork
Birds on Fire: II.Orlando Gough, Fretwork
Fantasia con pause e senza pausePhilip van Wilder, Fretwork
Pavan in 3 Parts: No. 26Thomas Lupo, Fretwork
Fantasia Air in 4 Parts: No. 5Thomas Lupo, Fretwork
Fantasia in 6 parts: No. 9Thomas Lupo, Fretwork
Pavan & Gallard No. 1: I. PavanAugustine Bassano, Fretwork
Pavan & Gallard No. 1: II. GalliardAugustine Bassano, Fretwork
Fantasia No. 1Hieronymus Bassano, Fretwork
Pavana a 5Joseph Lupo, Fretwork
Fantasia in 6 parts: No. 4Thomas Lupo, Fretwork
Fantasia in 6 parts: No. 11Thomas Lupo, Fretwork
Birds on Fire: III.Orlando Gough, Fretwork
Shir hamma'alót [Psalm 128]Salomone Rossi, Fretwork, Jeremy Avis
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