One Byrde in Hande (2018)

Richard Egarr’s impressive career, both as a solo keyboardist and conductor (notably with the Academy of Ancient Music), has cemented his reputation as one of the UK’s most compelling musicians.

In his debut solo recording for Linn, Egarr charts the extraordinary breadth of invention at play in works by William Byrd. One of English music’s most influential figures, Byrd’s innovative style is evident throughout this well-chosen program of preludes, grounds and fantasies.

The Fantasia in A minor, MB13 demonstrates the unlimited scope of Byrd’s imagination; intricate rhythms, surprising modulations and changing textures precede a finale requiring a previously unequalled level of dexterous virtuosity.

Egarr similarly relishes the technical demands of Byrd’s descriptive masterpiece, The bells. This incredible composition begins with a single toll before developing into an elaborate and thrillingly complex showpiece of pealing bells.

Egarr’s elegant phrasing, infectious enthusiasm and rich embellishments result in insightful performances.

Byrd:
 A Fancie (MB25)
 Fantasia in A Minor (Musica Britannica, Vol. 27, No. 13)
 Fantasia MB62
 Galliard
 Ground MB9
 Ground, MB43
 Pavan
 Pavana Lachrymæ
 Prelude in A minor (Musica Britannica, Vol. 27, No. 12)
 Prelude, MB1
 Prelude, MB24
 The Bells
 Ut re mi fa sol la
 Ut, mi, re

"At first glance, the selection looks challengingly serious… Yet Egarr has no problem keeping our attention. The sheer sound of his playing is one thing, produced on a crisp, punchy but resonant Ruckers copy… It has a fruity bass; but Egarr also manages to make it sing sweetly in the middle and high registers…An outstanding celebration of Byrd as one of the first keyboard greats."
Gramophone Magazine August 2018