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The reign of Elizabeth Tudor (1558-1603) brought with it a period of splendour for England, within which the lute experienced its moment of glory. In paintings from this time convivial scenes featuring performers of harp and lute are often depicted. Well known melodies of the epoch, as well as harmonic sequences such as Bergamasca, Ruggiero, Callinoe, Conde Claros and various Dumps were used by performers when they gathered to improvise together. Sometimes the music was dedicated to a well known personality of the court such as was surely the case with 'The Queenes Good Night', inspiring sweet dreams for Elizabeth. For this recording Marie Nishiyama and Rafael Bonavita have mixed the colours of harp and lute, the characteristics of each instrument to create a dialogue of sound between the two. A dialogue that goes as does this repertoire beyond epochs and styles.
I thoroughly enjoyed this CD. It was just what I was hoping for, when I ordered it. I wanted something relaxing and soothing to "de-stress" my evening, and it did just that. The musicianship from Marie Nishiyama, harp, and Rafael Bonavita, lute & guitar, was absolutely first rate. Their tonalities and nuanced playing were lovely and restful. I did notice that there seemed to be a particular emphasis on the lute, with the harp providing a resonating background. The overall effect was a soft cushion of sound, with a flow of harmonies and quietly pulsing rhythms. "Twenty Ways Upon The Bells", "Melancholy Galliard", "Green Garters", and "Conde Claros" were particularly beautiful selections. They almost had an ambient quality; they felt modern and timeless to me. They could have been composed four hundred years ago, or yesterday. They even reminded me of some of Brian Eno's more atmospheric melodies, from the late 1970's -- with a mix of chiming resonances and echoes, and an ambient, contemplative mood. I strongly recommend this CD to anyone who wants to chill after a challenging day at work, or for relaxing before bed. Or you might want to use it for yoga or meditation. Personally, I found it perfect for reading and work-related writing. I gladly give it five stars.
