And I didn’t see it coming.
As you may have guessed from the title of last week’s PDtP, I’ve never been a huge fan of English madrigals.
In fact, for me they were a necessary evil – after all, you can’t really do a survey of Renaissance repertoire without them – rather than music that anyone would actually sing willingly. (Not sure why I have such a strong dislike; maybe I’m allergic to nonsense lyrics.)
However, following our session, I’ve seen the light; it’s clear there are at least 13 of them that are actually damn good, and some of them even approach the exquisiteness of form and expression that is more often found in our sacred repertoire.
This is all down to the commitment and verve that you demonstrated in busking through them, so much so that it ended up being one of the best sessions we’ve had.
As always, I’ll let some of those who were there sum it up:
(That’s all right, Alex; we won’t tell anyone.)
And once again, my favourite part of the evening was the ‘after-hours’ session, when we revisited the best pieces as a much smaller group.
Thanks again to all who came – and for showing me that there is such a thing as a good madrigal. (You just have to search hard for it.)
Next session is tentatively scheduled for June 13th; will confirm later this week and post the booking link at the same time.
I’m also hoping to make a special Counterpint announcement in the next day or so, so keep an eye out.
Cheers
Kevin
Polyphony Down the Pub 