Thomas Tomkins (1572 - 1656)

Above the Starrs: Verse Anthems & Consort Music



Ensemble: Fretwork


Performers:
Emma Kirkby - soprano
Richard Wistreich - bass
Charles Daniels - tenor
Catherine King - alto
Jonathan Arnold - bass
Donald Greig - baritone


Recorded in: St. Bartholomew's Church, Orford



Thomas Tomkins' (1572–1656) music proved quite popular for nearly an entire generation prior to the 1642 civil war in England (after which choirs were disbanded in favor of more puritanical worship). Tompkins launched his musical career as the appointed organist at Worcester Cathedral, beginning in 1597. He went on to champion the verse-anthem repertoire, and his music displays a mix of chorus, solo, and ensemble. This new collection of both choral and viol consort music, recently packaged by the acclaimed British early music ensemble Fretwork, concatenates the charming vocal tunes of Tomkins with his quieter and more introspective viol works. This 20-track CD covers a wide range of stylings, from sacred and uplifting chorales to the quiet languor of the viol consort.


Superb performances by some of the outstanding singers of our time, the premiere consort of viols. Charles Daniels is outstanding. Emma Kirkby brings out the expressive details of Tomkins' declamation. Catherine King delivers a deeply melancholy psalm setting - beautifully. Richard Wiestreich's astonishing range fulfills Tomkins' astonishing demands. The viols double the singers throughout, with such delicacy and ensemble that at times they make a composite tone. The consort pieces have marvelous variety. His 3- and 4-part pieces bring moments of instrumental brilliance, but from the most part, mere display is the least of his concerns. The music requires this level of performer, but also this level of ensemble excellence - a rare combination, to be snapped up.





Tracklist:

01. O Lord, Lett Me Knowe Myne End
02. Fantasia a6
03. Pavan a6
04. Galliard a6
05. Fantasia a3
06. In Nomine a3
07. Ut Re Mi Fa Sol La a4
08. Sing Unto God
09. Pavan a4
10. Alman a4
11. Above The Starrs My Saviour Dwells
12. Fantasia a3
13. Pavan a5
14. Woe Is Me
15. In Nomine a3
16. Fantasia a6
17. Thou art My King
18. Fantasia a3
19. Fantasiz a6
20. Rejoice, Rejoice And Singe



MORE INFO:

harmoniamundi.com
barnesandnoble.com
allmusic.com
cduniverse.com
arkivmusic.com
musicweb.com