Richard Egarr - One Byrde in Hande - BBC Music Magazine [CC]

Recommended recording of Byrd's Fantasia in A minor

Byrd really lets his imagination run wild in this wonderful fantasia, made all the more colourful in this recording by the sharp, incisive temperament of the harpsichord. The piece begins innocently enough, but fantasy soon takes over with the unexpected introduction of runs, cross rhythms, daring harmonies, lively dances and the joy of sheer virtuosity. It is an Elizabethan rollercoaster.