Byrd/ Nigel North - Go from My Window

Nigel North presents a beguiling selection of English Renaissance ballad tunes for the lute by John Dowland and his contemporaries. Originally released in 2003, 'Go From My Window' has been re-issued as part of Linn's ECHO series which offers a second chance to enjoy the best of the label's award-winning catalogue. To the Elizabethans and Jacobeans of early seventeenth-century England, the lute was undoubtedly the most important instrument at all levels of society. It was the principle instrument used to accompany the voice, at court, theatre or home; amateurs played it for domestic music making; professionals like John Dowland entertained royalty around Europe with their own music composed and performed on the lute. Familiar favourites, like 'Greensleeves' and 'Go From My Window', sit alongside pieces whose popularity has since been forgotten. North has grouped pairs of the same tune by different composers allowing the listener to compare the different variations. 'Go From My Window' was well reviewed upon release with Gramophone naming it a 'Choice' recording. Renowned as one of the world's most respected lutenists Nigel North has developed a unique musical life embracing work as a teacher, accompanist, soloist, director and writer. With the ensemble Romanesca, North, together with Andrew Manze (violin) and John Toll (harpsichord & organ), performed and recorded 17th century chamber music winning several international awards for their recordings.