Vaughan Williams: Five Tudor Portraits

Experience the rich tapestry of Ralph Vaughan Williams' "Five Tudor Portraits," a captivating choral suite that brings to life the vivid characters and wit of 15th/16th-century poet John Skelton. This 45-minute album, set for release on March 1, 2025, by Warner Classics, is a testament to Vaughan Williams' mastery of orchestration and his deep appreciation for English literature and history.

Composed in 1935, "Five Tudor Portraits" is a unique blend of satire, compassion, and earthy humor, scored for contralto (or mezzo-soprano), baritone, mixed chorus, and orchestra. The suite consists of five movements, each portraying a different character from Skelton's poems: "Ballad. The Tunning of Elinor Rumming," "Intermezzo. My Pretty Bess," "Burlesca. Epitaph on John Jayberd of Diss," "Romanza. Jane Scroop, Her Lament for Philip Sparrow," and "Scherzo. Jolly Rutterkin."

The album features the exceptional talents of mezzo-soprano Elizabeth Bainbridge and baritone John Carol Case, accompanied by the New Philharmonia Orchestra and the Bach Choir, under the baton of the esteemed conductor Sir David Willcocks. This recording promises to be a standout in the classical genre, showcasing the power and beauty of Vaughan Williams' compositional style.

"Five Tudor Portraits" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through the Tudor era, brought to life through the vivid imagery and wit of John Skelton's poetry and the evocative music of Ralph Vaughan Williams. This album is a celebration of English choral tradition and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling through music.

Ralph Vaughan Williams, one of the most beloved and influential British composers of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on classical music with his evocative and deeply rooted compositions. Born in Down Ampney, Gloucestershire, in 1872, Vaughan Williams drew inspiration from English folk songs and Tudor music, forging a unique style that broke away from the German-dominated traditions of the 19th century. His extensive body of work includes nine symphonies, operas, ballets, chamber music, and both secular and religious vocal pieces, showcasing his versatility and mastery of various musical forms. Vaughan Williams is perhaps best known for his iconic work 'The Lark Ascending,' a piece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Throughout his career, he was not only a prolific composer but also an avid collector of English folk songs, further enriching his musical language. Vaughan Williams' enduring legacy is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of British musical heritage while pushing the boundaries of classical composition.