Gustav Leonhardt, a renowned name in the world of early music, presents a captivating journey through the English Renaissance with his album "Dowland, Lawes, Cooper, Byrd, Simpson & Lupo: English Consort and Keyboard Music." Released on February 4, 2022, under Warner Classics, this album is a testament to Leonhardt's mastery and the timeless beauty of the featured composers.
Spanning a little over an hour, the album is a rich tapestry of works by some of the most influential English composers of the 16th and 17th centuries. It opens with John Dowland's haunting "Pavan in C" and traverses through the intricate consort sets of William Lawes, the elegant fantasias of John Coperario, the profound works of William Byrd, the intricate ricercar of Christopher Simpson, and concludes with the expressive fantasia of Lupo.
Leonhardt's interpretation brings out the nuances and subtleties of each piece, offering a fresh perspective on these classic works. The album is a delightful blend of familiar favorites and lesser-known gems, all performed with the precision and passion that Leonhardt is known for. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is sure to captivate and enchant.