大象传媒

David Suchet stars as the English Renaissance composer William Byrd, 'The Father of English Music'. In five imagined encounters, Byrd looks back at key influences in his life and work, as he composes his major liturgical work, the Gradualia, a collection of 109 pieces written for each of the feasts and events in the Church calendar.

Episode 1

Advent 1603. As a Catholic, Byrd enjoyed the patronage and protection of Elizabeth I but now, the early years of James I bring change and turbulence and a renewed threat to Catholics following the Reformation. Byrd's wife, Juliana, convinces him not to be afraid and to continue with his composition.

Written by D.J. Britton

William Byrd ..... David Suchet
Juliana Byrd ..... Sara Kestelman

Music performed by Odyssean Ensemble and recorded at the Chapel Royal, Tower of London
Music Director, Colm Carey

Sound, Nigel Lewis and Catherine Robinson

Directed by Alison Hindell

大象传媒 Cymru Wales production for 大象传媒 Radio 3

The title is from a quote by William Byrd: 'The exercise of singing is delightful to nature, and good to preserve the health of man.'

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