Step into the opulent world of 17th-century English masque with Elizabeth Kenny and her ensemble, Theatre of the Ayre. "The Masque of Moments" is a captivating journey through a collection of extraordinary music that defined an era of aristocratic entertainment. This debut recording, released on Linn Records in 2017, showcases the intricate and imaginative compositions that brought to life the fantastical worlds of the masque, where reality and fantasy intertwined.
With a running time of 1 hour and 8 minutes, the album features 27 tracks, each a testament to the musical prowess of composers like Alfonso Ferrabosco and others who contributed to this rich tapestry of sound. Elizabeth Kenny, a renowned lutenist, curates a program that is both unusual and enchanting, offering a deep dive into the masque itself—a form of entertainment that was as much a spectacle as it was a musical experience.
"The Masque of Moments" is not just a collection of songs; it's a window into a bygone era of lavish performances and intricate musical storytelling. The album's medieval roots are evident in every note, transporting the listener to a time when music was an integral part of grand celebrations and courtly life. From the lively "The Bears' Dance" to the hauntingly beautiful "Sweet Echo," each piece is a masterclass in historical performance, brought to life with Kenny's meticulous attention to detail and her ensemble's virtuosity.
Whether you're a seasoned fan of early music or a newcomer to the genre, "The Masque of Moments" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Elizabeth Kenny's expertise and the ensemble's dedication to authenticity make this album a standout in the world of classical and medieval music. Immerse yourself in the sounds of the past and discover the timeless beauty of the masque.
Tracks
Lord Zouche's MaskeAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre
The Earl of Essex MeasureAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre
A Maske in Honour of the Marriage of Lord Hayes: Now Hath Flora Robb'd Her Bow'rsThomas Campion, Salisbury Cathedral Choir, Theatre of the Ayre, Sophie Daneman, Nicholas Mulroy, Giles Underwood
The Squires' Masque: While Dancing RestsGiovanni Coperario, Theatre of the Ayre, Sophie Daneman, Nicholas Mulroy, Giles Underwood, Oliver Harding, Monty Westall
The Haddington Masque: Why Stays the Bridegroom to InvadeAlfonso Ferrabosco II, Theatre of the Ayre, Nicholas Mulroy
A Maske in Honour of the Marriage of Lord Hayes: Move Now with Measur'd SoundThomas Campion, Theatre of the Ayre, William Purefoy
Tom O'BedlamAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre, Jacob Heringman
Inner Temple Masque or Ulysses and Circe: Steer Hither, Steer Your Winged PinesAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre, Sophie Daneman
The CaduaRobert Bateman, Theatre of the Ayre
The Gypsies Metamorphosed: From the Famous Peak of DerbyRobert Johnson, Theatre of the Ayre, Giles Underwood
The Bears' DanceAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre
The Masque of Augurs: Tho' it May Seem RudeAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre, William Purefoy, Andrew Stewart, Nicholas Mulroy, Giles Underwood, Rosanna Wicks, Richard Hooper
The Second of the Temple AnticAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre
The MaypoleAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre
RobinAnonymous, Theatre of the Ayre
The Queens Entertainment at Richmond: Did Not You Once, Lucinda, VowCharles Coleman, Theatre of the Ayre, Sophie Daneman, Giles Underwood
The Masque of the Inner Temple and Gray's Inn: CoperarioGiovanni Coperario, Theatre of the Ayre
A Maske Presented at Ludlow Castle: From the Heav'ns Now I FlyHenry Lawes, Nicholas Mulroy, Elizabeth Kenny
Part of the King's Masque: SinfonyWilliam Lawes, Theatre of the Ayre
A Maske Presented at Ludlow Castle: Sweet EchoHenry Lawes, Theatre of the Ayre, Rosanna Wicks
The Prince D'Amour His Masque at the Middle Temple: The Last Song or ValedictionWilliam Lawes, Salisbury Cathedral Choir, Theatre of the Ayre, William Purefoy, Nicholas Mulroy, Giles Underwood
The Triumph of Peace: Of the Inns of Court MasqueWilliam Lawes, Salisbury Cathedral Choir, Theatre of the Ayre, Giles Underwood, Sophie Daneman, Nicholas Mulroy, William Purefoy
The Masque of Beauty: Cease, Warring ThoughtsWilliam Lawes, Theatre of the Ayre, Elizabeth Kenny
Britannia Triumphans: SinfonyWilliam Lawes, Theatre of the Ayre
Cupid and Death: Mercury and Nature in the Elysian FieldsMatthew Locke, Salisbury Cathedral Choir, Theatre of the Ayre, Sophie Daneman, Giles Underwood
The Vision of Delight: I Was Not WearierNicholas Lanier, Nicholas Mulroy, David Miller
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