Dive into the rich tapestry of Elizabethan and early Jacobean keyboard music with Mishka Rushdie Momen's captivating album, "Reformation: Keyboard works by William Byrd, Orlando Gibbons, John Bull & Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck." This monumental collection, released on June 28, 2024, under the Hyperion label, offers a unique blend of classical piano works that span the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The album features 18 tracks, each meticulously performed by the versatile British pianist, Mishka Rushdie Momen, known for her expansive repertoire that ranges from early Baroque to contemporary compositions.
The album showcases the intricate and expressive keyboard works of four master composers: William Byrd, Orlando Gibbons, John Bull, and Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck. Byrd's compositions, known for their sorrowful and introverted nature, contrast beautifully with Bull's more audacious and optimistic pieces. Gibbons' works add a layer of elegance and sophistication, while Sweelinck's contributions bring a unique Dutch perspective to the collection.
Mishka Rushdie Momen's performance on a modern Steinway grand piano brings a fresh perspective to these historical works, highlighting the subtlety of tone and phrasing that make these compositions timeless. The album's duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of each piece, providing a deep dive into the musical styles and innovations of the Reformation era.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The detailed foreword by Mishka Rushdie Momen places the composers in the context of their historical and literary environments, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of the music. This album is a testament to the enduring beauty of Renaissance and early Baroque keyboard music, performed with skill and sensitivity by one of today's most dynamic pianists.
