Byrd, Ne Irascaris Domine/Civitas Sancti Tui

As I thought about using this selection by William Byrd (c. 1543-1623) as today’s performance pick, I recalled that Byrd had appeared here somewhat recently. So I looked back at the list and discovered, of course, it was during Lent last year. The season of Lent and Holy Week naturally call to mind the works of some of the best liturgical composers, and Byrd certainly ranks among them.

But we talked about that last year, and I think something needs to be said this time about the performers, Voces8. They came tantalizingly close on tour a few weeks ago (within about 200 miles), but, despite being seriously tempted to get in the car and go, the timing just didn’t work out. I have featured their performances here several times before now. And while I’ve pointed to many exceptional vocal ensembles that populate YouTube these days, I don’t know of any that surpass Voces8. Their intonation is often astonishingly good, and if you’ve ever sung in any ensemble, you know how hard it is to blend voices this well.

In addition to performing, they are making a significant contribution to music education. One of their members has written the “Voces8 Method” to teach singing at all age levels. They put on a summer school and festival yearly in the U.K. And they name eight scholars each year who receive special training in choral singing. From their website:

As one of the only vocal ensembles in the world to have started our own centre for vocal music, outreach and education, we are delighted to call the VOCES8 Centre our London home. We run workshops, masterclasses, concerts and recording sessions from this stunning Wren Church and would be delighted to welcome your school, choir or community ensemble.

I frequently include the text in this post, but this week I am also including a .pdf link to the score. I think it helps to visualize the texture of Renaissance music and to grasp its intricacies. And it may be your only chance to sing along with a group this good.