Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of English Renaissance music with Fretwork's "English Music For Viols," a captivating collection released on Warner Classics in 2008. This double album, spanning nearly three hours, is a testament to the exquisite artistry of the British viol consort, Fretwork, who have been championing this repertoire since their establishment in 1985.
The album is a comprehensive journey through the works of two prominent composers of the era: John Jenkins and William Lawes. Jenkins' intricate fantasias and suites, characterized by their complex polyphony and expressive depth, are beautifully rendered by Fretwork. The ensemble's nuanced performances bring out the subtle nuances and emotional resonance of these pieces, from the lively fantasias to the more contemplative suites.
Lawes' contributions to the album are equally compelling. His consort sets, with their distinctive blend of fantazies, aires, and pavens, showcase the ensemble's versatility and technical prowess. The album also includes a selection of Lawes' pieces for lyra viol, providing a fascinating contrast to the consort works.
Fretwork's performances are marked by their impeccable ensemble playing and deep understanding of the repertoire. Each piece is brought to life with a sense of historical authenticity and musical insight, offering a fresh perspective on this timeless music. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, "English Music For Viols" is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 16 for 5 Viols in D MajorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 8 for 6 Viols in A MinorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Suite No. 4 for 3 Viols and Continuo in C Major: I. FancyJohn Jenkins, Fretwork/Paul Nicholson
Jenkins, John: Suite No. 4 for 3 Viols and Continuo in C Major: II. AyreJohn Jenkins, Fretwork/Paul Nicholson
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 6 for 4 Viols in F MajorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 7 for 5 Viols in C MinorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Prelude, Almain and Corant, for Lyra ViolJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 12 for 4 Viols in D MajorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: In Nomine No. 2 for 6 Viols in E MinorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Pavan for 2 Bass Viols in A MinorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 5 for 4 Viols in F MajorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 3 for 6 Viols in C MinorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Suite No. 7 for 3 Viols and Continuo in D Minor: I. FancyJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Suite No. 7 for 3 Viols and Continuo in D Minor: II. AlmainJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Suite No. 7 for 3 Viols and Continuo in D Minor: III. CorantJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Pavan for 6 Viols No. 2 in F majorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Divisions for 2 Bass Viols in D MajorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: Fantasy No. 8 for 5 Viols in C MinorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Jenkins, John: In Nomine No. 1 for 6 Viols in G MinorJohn Jenkins, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 8 for 6 Viols in F Major, VdGS 90-93: I. Fantazy (The Sunrise)William Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 8 for 6 Viols in F Major, VdGS 90-93: II. AireWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 8 for 6 Viols in F Major, VdGS 90-93: III. FantazyWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 8 for 6 Viols in F Major, VdGS 90-93: IV. AireWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 2 for 5 Viols in A Minor, VdGS 71-73: I. FantazyWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 2 for 5 Viols in A Minor, VdGS 71-73: II. FantazyWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 2 for 5 Viols in A Minor, VdGS 71-73: III. AireWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Countrey Coll, for Lyra Viol, VdGS 421William Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Jigg, for Lyra Viol, VdGS 422William Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 5 for 5 Viols in C Major, VdGS 81-83: I. FantazyWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 5 for 5 Viols in C Major, VdGS 81-83: II. PavanWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 5 for 5 Viols in C Major, VdGS 81-83: III. AlmaineWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 4 for 5 Viols in F Major, VdGS 78-80: I. FantazyWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 4 for 5 Viols in F Major, VdGS 78-80: II. PavenWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
Lawes: Consort Set No. 4 for 5 Viols in F Major, VdGS 78-80: III. AireWilliam Lawes, Fretwork
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