Gibbons: Keyboard Works

In celebration of the 400th anniversary of Orlando Gibbons's passing, keyboardist Stephen Farr delivers a captivating exploration of one of England's most revered composers with "Gibbons: Keyboard Works." This album, set for release on February 28, 2025, via Resonus Classics, offers a comprehensive journey through Gibbons's keyboard repertoire, spanning a rich 69 minutes.

Orlando Gibbons, a pivotal figure bridging the Renaissance and Baroque eras, is renowned for his vocal works, consort pieces, and keyboard compositions. This collection features 18 tracks, including renowned pieces like "Fantasia for Double Organ, MB 7," "Pavan 'Lord Salisbury', MB 18," and "Peascod Time or The Hunt’s Up, MB 30." Each track showcases Gibbons's mastery of form and expression, highlighting his enduring influence on English keyboard music.

Stephen Farr's meticulous performance on the organ and harpsichord brings Gibbons's compositions to life with clarity and depth. The album's duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes ensures an immersive experience, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the intricacies and beauty of Gibbons's musical genius. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Gibbons: Keyboard Works" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.

Orlando Gibbons, born in Oxford in 1583, was a pivotal English composer and virtuoso keyboard player who bridged the Renaissance and Baroque eras. As the most renowned member of a musical family, Gibbons rose to prominence in the 1610s, becoming the leading composer and organist in England. His career, though tragically cut short by his death in 1625, left an indelible mark on various musical genres of his time. Gibbons' compositions, including his celebrated anthems and madrigals like "The Silver Swan," continue to resonate in churches and cathedrals, enchanting audiences 400 years after his passing. His journey began as a chorister at King's College, Cambridge, and later led him to join the royal household of King James VI and I. Despite his relatively small oeuvre compared to contemporaries like William Byrd, Gibbons' contributions are profound, making him a transitional figure whose music endures as a testament to his genius.