A Laurel for Landini

Dive into the enchanting world of medieval music with Andrew Lawrence-King's "A Laurel for Landini," a captivating album that celebrates the genius of Italian composer Francesco Landini and his contemporaries. Released in 2016 on Linn Records, this 26-track collection offers a rich tapestry of ballate, madrigali, and caccia, performed with exquisite skill by Andrew Lawrence-King and the renowned vocal ensemble Gothic Voices.

Spanning a generous 71 minutes, "A Laurel for Landini" showcases a blend of well-known pieces and lesser-performed gems, providing a comprehensive panorama of the musical landscape of Landini's time. The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Catherine King, Stephen Charlesworth, and Leigh Nixon, who bring these ancient compositions to life with their virtuosic performances.

Andrew Lawrence-King, a renowned harpist and conductor, is known for his ability to breathe new life into ancient manuscripts, making them accessible and engaging for modern audiences. His work on this album, along with his previous projects like "Piae Cantiones" and "The Celtic Viol II," demonstrates his unique talent for interpreting and performing medieval music.

The album's Celtic and medieval genres are beautifully represented in tracks like "Sia laudato san Francesco," "O sommo specchio," and "Vergine donzella imperadrice," each offering a unique glimpse into the musical styles of the era. Whether you're a seasoned fan of medieval music or a curious newcomer, "A Laurel for Landini" promises an immersive and rewarding listening experience.