The Woods So Wild

Orlando Gibbons' exquisite collection, The Woods So Wild, is a masterful showcase of his ingenious compositions, released on 1 January 2001 by Linn Records. This captivating album, spanning 1 hour and 12 minutes, presents a rich tapestry of sounds, weaving together an array of intricate pieces, including preludes, fantasias, pavans, and galliards.

With a focus on Gibbons' iconic works, such as 'The Woods so Wild' and 'Pavan: Lord Salisbury', this album is a testament to the composer's innovative spirit and artistic flair. The inclusion of multiple fantasias, each with its unique character, demonstrates Gibbons' remarkable skill in crafting complex and beautiful music.

From the elegant 'Pavan a 5' to the lively 'Coranto', and the stately 'Galliard: Lord Salisbury', Orlando Gibbons' The Woods So Wild is a treasure trove of Renaissance music, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the splendour of his creations. Through the precision and passion of the performances, Gibbons' music comes alive, offering a profound and enchanting listening experience that will linger long after the final notes have faded.

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.