Bringing together all of Byrd's works as featured in the anthology, this release contains many sets of variations - including the infamous Walsingham MB8, which comprises no less than 22 embellished statements of the theme. The piece ranks among the most virtuosic of the composer's keyboard compositions, and appears alongside several instrumental dances such as the Pavan and Galliard. Often modal in flavor, these abound in rhythmic energy and continuity - important features considering the static harmony and repetitive nature of the material. The Carman's Whistle also makes an appearance, a piece first popularized by Arthur Rubinstein during his historical recital programs and which was later arranged by Percy Grainger. Second volume of a unique project: the first complete recording of the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book, dedicated to William Byrd. Recorded 19 & 20 October 2011, Westvestkerk Schiedam (CD1); 26 May & 1 June 2012, Doopsgezinde gemeente Dordrecht (CD2). A great achievement of Pieter-Jan Belder, one of the most respected and frequently recorded keyboard (harpsichord, clavichord, virginal, organ, hammerklavier) players of today. His recordings of Bach, Rameau, CPE Bach and Scarlatti (complete Sonatas!) have met with great critical acclaim in the international press.

Tracklist:

Walsingham, Mb 8
Prelude In A Minor, Mb 12
Fantasia In A Minor, Mb 13
Fantasia In G Major, Mb 62
The Carman's Whistle, Mb 36
The Queen's Alman, Mb 10
Tregian's Ground, Mb 20
Lady Monteagle's Pavan, Mb 75
The Woods So Wild, Mb 85
Lachrymae Pavan, Mb 54 (Arr. Byrd)
Galliard, Mb 55 (Arr. Byrd)
John, Come Kiss Me Now, Mb 81
Pavan In A Minor, Mb 14a
Galliard In A Minor, Mb 14b
Sellinger's Round, Mb 84
Pavan In G Minor, Mb 4a
Galliard In G Minor, Mb 4b
The Hunt's Up, Mb 40
Ut Re Mi Fa Sol La, Mb 64
Pavan In D Minor, Mb 52a
Galliard In D Minor, Mb 52b
The Maiden Song, Mb 82
Fantasia In C Major, Mb 25
Quadran Pavan, Mb 70a
The Quadran Galliard, Mb 70b
All In A Garden Green, Mb 56
Pavan In G Major, Mb 71a
Galliard In G Major, Mb 71b
Pavan In C Minor, Mb 29a
Galliard In C Minor, Mb 29b
Rowland, Mb 7
Pavan In G Major, Mb 74: Canon 2 In 1
Pavan In A Minor, Mb 99a (Arr. Byrd)
Galliard In A Minor, Mb 99c
Lavolta, Mb 91

UPC: 5028421943626
Label: Brilliant Classics
Release Date: 1.29.13
Format: CD

Pieter-Jan Belder - Fitzwilliam Virginal Book 2 (CD)