Composer of the Week - Henry Purcell (1659-1695) - Episode 1

Donald Macleod and Purcell expert Bruce Wood look at the important events of Purcell's early years. The years of the Commonwealth were lean times for musicians. The restoration of monarchy brought the re-establishment of Royal Music and young Purcell was quick to follow in the family tradition in the service of the King. Part of Radio 3's Composers of the Year 2009 season. What hope remains now he is gone Susan Gritton (soprano) Michael George (bass) The King's Consort Robert King (director) Hyperion CDA 66710 - Tr 5 Staircase Overture Parley of Instruments Renaissance Violin Band Peter Holman (director) Hyperion CDA 66667 - Tr 48 Blow up the trumpet in Sion Z10 King's College Choir David Willcocks (director) Fantazia 6 a 4 Phantasm Simax PSC1124 - Tr 6 My Beloved Spake The Choir of Christ Church Oxford Simon Preston (director) From Silent Shades; How I sigh when I think of the charms of my swain (1680) Susan Gritton (soprano) The King's Consort Robert King (director) Hyperion CDA 66710 If even I more riches did desire Z544 Red Byrd Parley of Instruments Peter Holman (director) Hyperion CDA 66750 - Tr 12.