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Episode 4

Five imagined encounters in the life of the English Renaissance composer William Byrd, as he writes his major work, the Gradualia. With David Suchet and written by D.J. Britton.

David Suchet stars as the English Renaissance composer William Byrd, 'The Father of English Music'. In five imagined encounters, Byrd looks back at key influences in his life and work, as he composes his major liturgical work, the Gradualia, a collection of 109 pieces written for each of the feasts and events in the Church calendar.

Episode 4

Pentecost, 1606. James I is wreaking revenge on Catholics following the Gunpowder Plot and times have become dangerous for Byrd and his wife. The first part of the Gradualia has been published and the manuscripts pose a threat for anyone who possesses a copy, especially as they are written in Latin.

Written by D.J. Britton

William Byrd ..... David Suchet
Juliana ..... Sara Kestelman

Music performed by Odyssean Ensemble and recorded at the Chapel Royal, Tower of London
Music Director, Colm Carey

Sound, Nigel Lewis and Catherine Robinson

Directed by Alison Hindell

Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Cymru Wales production for Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 3

The title is from a quote by William Byrd: 'The exercise of singing is delightful to nature, and good to preserve the health of man.'

Available now

14 minutes

Last on

Thu 22 Jul 2021 22:45

Broadcast

  • Thu 22 Jul 2021 22:45