Size Matt’reth Not - The Compleat Fantazias for 2 Treble Viols & the 3 & 4-part Consorts for the 'Great Dooble Base' by Orlando Gibbons - Orlando Gibbons

Album Description

Dive into the rich and intricate world of Orlando Gibbons with "Size Matt'reth Not - The Compleat Fantazias for 2 Treble Viols & the 3 & 4-part Consorts for the 'Great Dooble Base'." This meticulously crafted album, released on October 15, 2020, under the Midweﬅ415 label, offers a comprehensive collection of Gibbons' fantazias, showcasing his mastery of the consort music form. Spanning over 68 minutes, the album features 27 tracks, each a testament to Gibbons' compositional genius and the timeless appeal of his music.

Phillip W. Serna, the driving force behind this project, has painstakingly recorded, mixed, and mastered each piece, ensuring that the essence of Gibbons' work is preserved and presented in the best possible light. The album is a treasure trove for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to Gibbons' music, offering a deep dive into his oeuvre.

The album includes a variety of fantazias for different consort combinations, from duets to quartets, each demonstrating Gibbons' versatility and innovation. The pieces are drawn from various manuscripts, including those from Oxford's Christ Church and Cambridge's King's College, providing a historical context to the music. The inclusion of works by other composers, such as Thomas Lupo the Elder and Alfonso Ferrabosco the Elder, adds depth and variety to the collection.

The album comes in a beautifully designed 4-panel gatefold card case, featuring unique disk artwork exclusive to the CD release. This attention to detail extends to the music itself, with each track performed with precision and passion, bringing Gibbons' compositions to life in a way that is both authentic and engaging.

Whether you're a fan of early music or simply appreciate the beauty of well-crafted compositions, "Size Matt'reth Not" is an album that deserves a place in your collection. It's a celebration of Orlando Gibbons' legacy, presented with the utmost care and respect for his artistry.

15 oktober 2020

2020 Phillip W. Serna, Midweﬅ415

About Orlando Gibbons

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.