IN A STRANGE LAND

Antiphon

The music of William Byrd and Thomas Tallis, before, during and after the English Reformation.

Our title illustrates the sense of alienation which was felt at the time, not least by these two composers, when the familiar assumptions and practices of Catholicism were taken away, restored and taken away again under Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary and Elizabeth I.  Both composers adapted and evolved their music, sometimes writing clandestine music for Catholic patrons against the reigning monarch of the day. 

PROGRAMME

William Byrd (1543–1623):

Mass for Four Voices: Kyrie, Gloria, Agnus Dei

O Lord, make thy servant Elizabeth our Queen 

Teach me, O Lord 

Sing joyfully 

Ne irascaris Domine 

Vigilate

Thomas Tallis (c1505–1585):

Missa Puer natus est: Gloria, Agnus Dei

Why fum’th in fight 

If ye love me, keep my commandments 

O Lord, give Thy Holy Spirit 

Videte miraculum