Little Jazz Madrigals

This dynamic collection presents four jazzy settings of favourite madrigals by Thomas Morley, John Bennet, and Orlando Gibbons. The first, 'Sing we and chant it', is a relaxed jazz waltz with a compelling melody, and singers will especially revel in the rich harmonies of the expressive 'Weep, O mine eyes' setting that follows. 'Learned Poets' has a bossa nova feel with a strong rhythmic groove and characterful syncopations.

The urgent rolling tempo of the fourth movement captures the text's intensity and titular call of 'Fire, fire!', also expressed by a walking bassline that continually drives towards the work's emphatic conclusion. The stylistic piano part may be played as written or serve as a guide, and a bass and drum kit part is available separately for trio accompaniment.