"Fairest Isle: A New National Songbook" is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of British music, curated by the renowned soprano Catherine Bott. Released in March 2000 under the Hyperion label, this album is a delightful blend of opera and medieval genres, spanning a diverse range of styles and periods. With a duration of over an hour, the album features 16 tracks, each a gem in its own right, performed by Catherine Bott alongside Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman, and The Parley of Instruments.
The album opens with a medley overture from Henry Purcell's "King Arthur," setting the stage for a musical exploration that includes works by Thomas Arne, George Frideric Handel, and traditional folk songs. Highlights include the iconic "Rule, Britannia!" from Arne's "Alfred," the lively "The British Grenadiers," and the poignant "The Melancholy Nymph" by Handel. The album also features lesser-known but equally enchanting pieces like "The Lass of Richmond Hill" and "The Broom of Cowdenknowes," showcasing the depth and breadth of British musical heritage.
Catherine Bott's exquisite vocals are complemented by the period-instrument ensemble The Parley of Instruments, led by Peter Holman, ensuring an authentic and immersive listening experience. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful melodies, "Fairest Isle: A New National Songbook" offers a treasure trove of musical delights that celebrate the best of British songcraft.
Tracks
Harlequin Restor'd: Medley OvertureRichard Charke, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V: Fairest Isle, All Isles ExcellingHenry Purcell, Catherine Bott, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
The Lass of Richmond HillJames Hook, The Parley of Instruments, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman
The Mock Marriage, Z. 605: Twas Within a Furlong of Edinboro' TownJeremiah Clarke, Henry Purcell, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments, Catherine Bott
Twelfth Night: When That I Was a Little Tiny BoyJoseph Vernon, The Parley of Instruments, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman
The Beggar's Opera (Arr. Pepusch), Act II: Air 37. Cease Your FunningJohn Gay, Catherine Bott, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
The Plough Boy / The MilkmaidWilliam Shield, Peter Holman, Joseph Cornwell, Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments
The British GrenadiersAnonymous, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments, Joseph Cornwell
Overture in G Major, Op. 4 No. 9Francesco Barsanti, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman
Sally in Our AlleyHenry Carey, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
The Broom of CowdenknowesAnonymous, Catherine Bott, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
Farewell to LocaberAnonymous, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
English Songs, HWV 228: No. 19, The Melancholy NymphGeorge Frideric Handel, Peter Holman, Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments
Love in a Village: The Miller of DeeThomas Arne, Peter Holman, Joseph Cornwell, The Parley of Instruments
The Oddities: Tom BowlingCharles Dibdin, Peter Holman, Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments
Alfred: Rule, BritanniaThomas Arne, Catherine Bott, Joseph Cornwell, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman, Psalmody
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