These recordings were amongst the very first by one of the world’s most successful vocal groups. The Hilliard Ensemble formed in 1974 to perform the vocal chamber music from many periods. As many of the pieces in its repertoire were musical miniatures by English composers, the original members decided to associate themselves with that famous Elizabethan creator of miniature portraits, Nicholas Hilliard (c1547-1619). Despite various changes of personnel since, the Hilliards continue to great acclaim, giving both a cappella concerts of music from all periods and appearing with musicians in new and challenging repertoire. The New London Consort, directed by Philip Pickett, is firmly established as one of the world’s leading early music ensembles with a uniquely wide and colourful repertoire of Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque music, much of it unpublished. It has an enviable reputation for the flair, versatility and virtuosity of its members, displayed beautifully on this disc.
“One senses the young ensemble, eager no doubt to make their mark and show off not only their dazzling vocal dexterity but also a new approach. In fact, few of their later recordings of secular music recapture this truculent, bawdy atmosphere.” -Gramophone
