In this programme we follow the development of musical composition in the English Chapel Royal during the course of the 16th century. Robert Fayrfax and William Cornysh were both prominent musical figures at the turn of the century and as the century progresses names such as Browne, Tallis, Shepherd, Farrant, Parsons, Mundy and Byrd appear in the Cheque Book. Part of Chapelle 's ethos derives from the way we work on projects. This approach is intrinsically more interesting than simply performing already well known works that are in print. In aiming to cover a composer's complete works, or to bring to prominence a little known composer, research is needed and scholarship can be brought to bear.
New editions result, the music is performed at concerts, and recordings become available.
Considering his towering position in the history of English music, Thomas Tallis is undeservedly neglected. A significant amount of his music is unsatisfactorily published and much is unrecorded. It is hard to think of any other composer before 1600 who travelled such a distance stylistically. Tallis was at the forefront of the musical exploration which the Chapel Royal composers led in finding new ways to compose for the Anglican Prayer book. His stylistic developments show the growing influence of Continental music in England from the mid 16th century onwards.