Orlando Gibbons was a prominent English composer, virginalist and organist of the late Elizabethan and early Jacobean periods. Born on December 25, 1583, in Oxford, Gibbons is recognized as one of the most versatile English composers of his time. Gibbons' music spans a dynamic range that covers madrigals, anthems, Fantasias, and keyboard works, making him an essential figure in the transition towards the Baroque era.

Gibbons' compositional career was marked by a distinctive style that combined expressive melody with intricate counterpoint. His output included widely acclaimed pieces such as "The Silver Swan," and his keyboard works represented in collections like "The Passinge Mesures – Music of the English Virginalists" showcase his mastery of the virginal, an early keyboard instrument. Despite his untimely death at the age of 41 on June 5, 1625, Gibbons' work left a long-lasting impact on English sacred music and instrumental composition. His repertoire continues to be performed and esteemed, exemplified by recent releases such as "Passages. Hidden Treasures of Baroque and Classical Piano," and "Size Matt​’​reth Not - The Compleat Fantazias for 2 Treble Viols & the 3 & 4​-​part Consorts for the 'Great Dooble Base'," highlighting the enduring relevance of his oeuvre.

Genres

Anglican Liturgy

Early Music

English Baroque

English Renaissance

Madrigal

Renaissance

Latest Release

Reformation: Keyboard works by William Byrd, Orlando Gibbons, John Bull & Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck

William Byrd•

Orlando Gibbons•

Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck

Album - 18 Tracks - Released June 28, 2024