Various Composers - Troubled Times (The Queen's Six; The Rose Consort of Viols)

Information

1. John Bull - Almighty God, which by the leading of a star
2. John Taverner - Quemadmodum
3. Richard Sampson - Quam pulcra es
4. William Byrd - Cunctis diebus
5. Alfonso Ferrabosco I - Vias tuas
6. Martin Peerson - Who will rise up?
7. John Wilbye - O God the rock of my whole strength
8. Thomas Morley - Out of the deep
9. Thomas Morley - Eheu sustulerunt
10. Thomas Morley - Domine Dominus noster
11. John Bull - In nomine
12. Alfonso Ferrabosco I - Laboravi in gemitu meo
13. Alfonso Ferrabosco II - Fuerunt mihi lacrimae
14. William Byrd - O salutaris hostia à 6
15. Peter Philips - Beata Agnes
16. Richard Dering - Factum est silentium
17. William Byrd - Teach me, O Lord

The Queen's Six

The Rose Consort of Viols

Date: 2026

Label: Signum Classics

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Troubled Times: Music and Espionage in Renaissance England explores the sacred music created during the religious and political turmoil of 16th-century England. Performed by The Queen’s Six and The Rose Consort of Viols, the programme examines how composers responded to censorship, exile, and shifting political loyalties from the Henrician Reformation through the Elizabethan era. Featuring works by composers including William Byrd and John Taverner, the recording reveals strategies of adaptation and survival within a climate of suspicion and religious conflict. By situating the music within its historical context, the project illuminates the intricate relationship between faith, political power, and artistic expression in Renaissance England.

The Queen’s Six is a British vocal ensemble founded in 2008 by members of the choir of St George’s Chapel, known for its distinctive blend shaped by daily choral practice within the castle. Their repertoire spans Elizabethan polyphony, Renaissance sacred music, contemporary works, madrigals, folk songs, jazz, and popular arrangements. The ensemble regularly performs at high-profile state and ceremonial events, including royal occasions such as the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and the funeral of Prince Philip, as well as international appearances in major venues worldwide. Alongside sacred and classical traditions, they are noted for their versatility, media presence, and eclectic recordings, which reflect both historical depth and modern entertainment appeal.

The Rose Consort of Viols is an English ensemble founded in 1990 specializing in early consort music performed on viols. Their repertoire focuses on Renaissance and early Baroque composers such as Orlando Gibbons, John Dowland, and Henry Purcell. The ensemble has performed internationally, appeared frequently on BBC broadcasts, and released numerous recordings, including collaborations with vocal group Red Byrd. Their name references a renowned family of historical viol makers, reflecting their dedication to historically informed performance practice and the revival of early English instrumental repertoire.