Description

Old English Vocal Music (11th–17th Centuries) / LP

SUA 10714

Product Details:

Label: Supraphon
Catalog Number: SUA 10714 (Mono) / SUA ST 50714 (Stereo)
Format: Vinyl, Compilation
Country: Czechoslovakia
Released: 1960s
Genre: Classical, Early Music

Overview

"Old English Vocal Music (11th–17th Centuries)" is a captivating compilation performed by the Prague Madrigal Singers under the direction of Miroslav Venhoda. This album transports listeners to the rich heritage of English vocal music, spanning several centuries of artistic evolution. From the sacred hymns of William Byrd and Thomas Tallis to the lively madrigals of Thomas Morley and the heartfelt ayres of John Dowland, this collection encapsulates the diversity and spiritual depth of Old English music.

Notable highlights include anonymous works such as the 12th-century "Hymn to St. Magnus" and the 13th-century "Kyrie 'Rex Virginum'," alongside treasures like "Summer Is Icumen In," the oldest known English round. Recorded in the historic Klementinum of Prague, the performances blend authentic instrumentation with exquisite vocal interpretations, making this album a cornerstone for enthusiasts of early music.

Track Listing

Side I:

Have Mercy Upon Me (William Byrd)
Audivi Vocem (Thomas Tallis)
O Mater Venerabilis (John Browne)
Ave Regina Caelorum (John Dunstable)
Hymn to St. Magnus (12th Century, Parallel Organum)
Kyrie "Rex Virginum" (13th Century, Two-Part Tropus)
Alleluia Psallat (14th Century Motet, Worcester School)

Side II:

Two Christmas Carols (Anonymous)
Ductia from Oxford (Anonymous)
Summer Is Icumen In (Anonymous)
I Have Been a Foster (Part Song)
My Bonny Lass (Thomas Morley)
I Feign Not Friendship Where I Hate (Orlando Gibbons)
What If I Never Speed (John Dowland)

Key Credits

Conductors:

Miroslav Venhoda

Performers:

Prague Madrigal Singers (various vocalists, including Milada Boublíková, Marie Němcová, and Vladimir Vobornik)
Musica Antiqua, Vienna (directed by René Clemencic)

Instrumentalists: