Woods So Wild BCR 014
In this beautiful collection of Medieval and Renaissance consort pieces, we explore the theme of nature expressed in music, from the simple English ballad settings Strawberry Leaves and My Robin, through the complex virelais of the French medieval Ars Nova, to the exquisite word painting of the Italian renaissance madrigal. Works include Machaut’s Rose Liz Printemps, William Byrd’s famous settings of The Leaves be Green and The Woods So Wild, as well as the remarkable birdsong chanson L’Alouette by Janequin. A feast of feathery and leafy pleasures!
Available as a physical CD from Barn Cottage Records, and as downloads/streaming via Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music and others
The Nightingale’s Response BCR 015
A sequel to the much-loved Woods So Wild (BCR014) this album continues Fontanella’s journey into repertoire inspired by birdsong and nature. Featuring canzonas, concertos, songs and keyboard transcriptions by Purcell, Couperin and Vivaldi, as well as sparkling new arrangements of two jazz standards, and the magnificently quirky Wild Wood by Tim Coker.
“If ever there was a recording for a gentle summer’s evening this must be it. The scores range from Merula and Van Eyck in the seventeenth century to George Shearing and Joseph Kosma. The nightingale itself is heard as the programme continues and it says a great deal for the sensitivity of the planning that there is no problem in continuity. The Quintet play a wide range of recorders giving a freshness and range to the works, all of which are captivating in their impact.” Lark Reviews
Available as a physical CD from Barn Cottage Records, and as downloads/streaming via Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music and others