The Tallis Scholars, directed by Peter Phillips, released a CD and DVD of William Byrd’s music in 2006 titled Playing Elizabeth’s Tune. The DVD includes performances of his music recorded in Tewkesbury Abbey. Then Charles Hazlewood explores the historical context of Byrd’s position as a Catholic musician serving Queen Elizabeth I, a Protestant queen persecuting his fellow Catholics. It is a very good presentation of the times and I enjoy the Tallis Scholars’ performances.
Another recording of William Byrd music I have really enjoyed contrasts his Catholic, Latin works with Thomas Tallis’ works for Protestant services in English. Stile Antico performs Byrd’s motets and Tallis’ psalm tunes alternating throughout the album, Heavenly Harmonies.
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