The Internet's Premier Classical Music Source
Related Links
- Latest Reviews
- More Reviews
-
By Composer
- Collections
DVD & Video
Books
Articles/Interviews
Software
Audio
Search Amazon
Supporters
Buy/Sell Used Music
Sell Classical Music CDs & more Used CDs: PREX buys Jazz Records, Classical CDs, etc. online or at NJ Store
Site News
Site Search
Affiliates
CD Review
Mi Verry Joy
Songs of 15th-Century Englishmen
- John Bedyngham: (d. 1460)
- Mi verry joy (Rondeau)
- O rosa bella (Ballata)
- Le serviteur (Rondeau)
- Myn hertis lust (Rhyme-royal)
- Duer ne puis (Rondeau)
- Fortune alas (Rhyme-royal)
- Se belle (Rondeau)
- John Dunstable: (c. 1390-1453)
- Puisque m'amour (Rondeau)
- Je languis (Ballade)
- I pray yor all (Carol)
- Hert:
- O sora bella (Ballata)
- Walter Frye: (fl. 15th century)
- alas alas (Rhyme-royal)
- Watlin frew
- So ys emprentid (Rhyme-royal)
- Tout a par moy (Rondeau)
The Medieval Ensemble of London/Peter & Timothy Davies
Decca L'Oiseau-Lyre 4780023 62m DDD (Rec in 1983)
It is a pity to observe (from the programme notes) that the Medieval Ensemble of London only lasted a few years as from the evidence provided here they sure were an excellent group of singers. The music is by John Bedyngham, John Dunstable, Hert and Walter Frye, all composers who were pretty much well known in their lifetime and who provide works that are interesting and quite varied.
The Davies' brothers are excellent exponents of the music here and with their able team of soloists, this CD is extremely enjoyable and also very beautiful. I was particularly taken in by Patrizia Kwella's singing in the title track, "Mi Verry Joy" by Bedyngham and the contributions of Roger Covey-Crump in such pieces as "Le serviteur" (Bedyngham), "Je languis" (Dunstable) and last but not least "So ys emprentid" by Walter Frye. The other soloists also accredit themselves well and Timothy Davies' lute is a soothing accompaniment in several of the pieces.
The 1983 recording – which also features Margaret Philpot, Michael George and, Paul Hillier – has come up fresh and clean as a whistle and enshrines this trailblazing period vocal performance for posterity. Lovers of early Medieval vocal music and the sense of mystery it creates should not hesitate to acquire this splendid re-issue.
Copyright © 2008 by Gerald Fenech.
