The Singing Byrd 1: Singing in Secret

In the England of Elizabeth I, the Catholic faith was forbidden territory. Yet music was heard during secret masses in private homes and remote chapels. That of William Byrd, for example: a top Tudor composer but also the author of a clandestine oeuvre. The Marian Consort reconstructs a hidden service with Byrd's Mass for Four Voices, interspersed with motets for Corpus Christi. Once intended for a closed circle of believers, this repertoire is now given free rein.

Programme

William Byrd (c1540-1623)
Introit: Cibavit eos
Mass for Four voices
Kyrie
Gloria
Gradual: Oculi omnium
Mass for Four voices
Credo
Offertory: Sacerdotes Domini
Mass for Four voices
Sanctus
Benedictus
Ave verum corpus
Mass for Four voices
Agnus Dei
Communion: Quotiescunque manducabitis
Ad Dominum cum tribularer
Programme subject to change

The Marian Consort is an award-winning UK vocal ensemble directed by Rory McCleery, known for refined, flexible and expressive performances spanning the twelfth century to today. Praised internationally for clarity and emotional depth, it champions overlooked Renaissance composers and collaborates closely with living composers through commissions and new projects. With acclaimed recordings and appearances at major venues and festivals, it bridges tradition, innovation, and contemporary artistic collaboration.

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