Recusant

Donald Macleod examines Byrd the religious rebel.

This week, Donald Macleod explores the life of William Byrd, the greatest British musician of his age. Donald is joined all week by Byrd expert Kerry McCarthy to explore Byrd’s story and reveal a composer of determined ambition and powerful convictions. Those who encountered him, found Byrd could be a difficult adversary as well as a loyal friend. Donald also visits Essex to discover what remains of Byrd’s legacy in the places where he felt most at home, and to see how the composer navigated a hazardous path between his catholic faith and his duty to the crown at a time of great religious intolerance.

Today, Donald looks at the consequences for ‘recusants’, like Byrd, who remained loyal to the catholic faith even though catholic worship had been outlawed by the Queen. Donald visits Ingatestone Hall, home to Byrd’s patron and fellow recusant, Sir John Petre (later Lord Petre), and investigates how they pursued their beliefs in rural Essex, while also remaining loyal servants of the crown.

Gaudeamus omnes
Marian Consort, directed by Rory McCleery

Mass for 4 voices: Credo
Pro Arte Singers, directed by Paul Hillier

Sellinger’s Round
Pavan 'Sir William Petre'
Christopher Hogwood, harpsichord and virginals

Ne irascaris Domine
Choir of Westminster Cathedral, directed by Martin Baker

Oh God that guides the cheerful sun
The Sixteen
Fretwork, directed by Harry Christophers