400 years ago, in 1623, England lost two of it's greatest composers: William Byrd and Thomas Weelkes. In a program marking this double anniversary, The King's Singers and Fretwork turn their focus to the bold personalities of these two men, Will and Tom. Featuring well-known gems by the two composers, alongside works which had never been recorded before and which are rarely heard live, Tom and Will unlocks some of the humanity behind these two giants of Elizabethan music. Presented in The King's Singers' unique style, this program is filled with beauty, drama and storytelling. As part of this project, The King's Singers and Fretwork have commissioned two new works for their joint forces, by two of Britain's great living composers: Sir James MacMillan and Roderick Williams. These works only feature in the version performed by The King's Singers and Fretwork, but represent a commitment to keeping the spirit of Byrd and Weelkes alive in today's musical landscape.

Tracklist:

Praise our Lord, all ye Gentiles
If women could be fair
Say dear, when will your frowning leave
Like two proud armies
Pavan No. 3 a 5
Thule, the period of cosmographie
What joy so true
In Nomine No. 1 a 4
Ye sacred muses
Ye sacred muses
In Nomine No. 2 a 5
Harke, all ye lovely saints above
Death hath deprived me
Death, be not proud
In Nomine No. 3 a 5
Who made thee, Hob, forsake the plough?
This sweet and merry month of May
The leaves be green
Alack, when I look back
O Lord, make thy servant Elizabeth

UPC: 635212073124
Label: Signum Classics
Release Date: 1.13.23
Format: CD

Byrd / Macmillan / Bruerton - Tom & Will - Weelkes & Byrd (CD)