The Triumphs of Oriana (1601)
The most famous of English madrigal collections, compiled by Thomas Morley, apparently in honour of Queen Elizabeth (but read John Milsom’s note on this). Music by Weelkes, Wilbye, Morley etc.
Morley’s collection of twenty-five madrigals by a unique cross-section of twenty-three English composers was first published more than 400 years ago in 1601.
This was the first in a series of three discs on the Chaconne label released to mark the 400th anniversary of the death of Queen Elizabeth I.
“The 10 solo voices of I Fagiolini bring out every facet of these sharply contrasted settings… this beautifully prepared recording… a remarkable musical document.” The Guardian
“The full collection has not been recorded for nearly a quarter of a century now, and this version is very welcome for that reason alone…” BBC Music Magazine
“…performances as good as this by the 10 members of I Fagiolini make it seem worth the wait.” Gramophone
Chandos CHAN 0682
Released 2002
