William Byrd (c.1540-1623) was an English composer of late Renaissance music. Considered among the greatest composers of the Renaissance, he had a profound influence on composers both from his native England and on the continent. On his death, he was reported in the records of the Chapel Royal as 'father of Music'. He wrote in many of the forms current in England at the time, including various types of sacred and secular polyphony, keyboard (the so-called Virginalist school), and consort music. Byrd's exploration of polyphony and chromaticism within the confines of his keyboard compositions reflect his remarkable skill and artistic innovation. His complete organ music remains an invaluable treasure trove, offering a glimpse into the soul of Renaissance England's musical genius. Played by Pieter-Jan Belder on the Albert Kiespenning organ of the Grote Kerk, Wijk bij Duurstede, The Netherlands, the specifications of which are included in the booklet. Pieter-Jan Belder, one of the foremost keyboard players of today, also recorded Byrd's complete harpsichord music, which received several 5 star reviews in the international press.
