A Laurel for Landini

Album Description

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.

September 23, 2016

2016 Linn Records

About Andrew Lawrence-King

Andrew Lawrence-King, born in Guernsey, is a renowned harpist and conductor celebrated for his pioneering work in early music. With a career spanning decades, Lawrence-King is known for his innovative approach to historically informed performance, blending state-of-the-art early music techniques with captivating improvisation and engaging stage presence. As the director of The Harp Consort, he leads a group that seamlessly merges musical excellence with theatrical flair. Beyond his work with The Harp Consort, Lawrence-King also heads Il Corago, a team dedicated to the historical staging of early opera, and the International Baroque Opera Studio at Opera Omnia Moscow. His influence extends globally, having directed operas, oratorios, and chamber music at prestigious venues such as La Scala in Milan, the Sydney Opera House, and Casals Hall in Tokyo. Lawrence-King's discography is extensive, making him one of the most recorded harpists of all time. His performances are not just concerts but immersive experiences that transport audiences through time, offering a unique blend of historical authenticity and modern creativity.