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Courtly Masquing Ayres

(John Adson)

The Courtly Masquing Ayres, composed to 5 and 6 parts, for violins, consorts and cornets were written and published by John Adson in 1621.  They were presented to George, Marquesse of Buckingham and were the first of their kind ever printed.  The Ayres were presented in a collection and comprise around 31 pieces described as “lively dances for violin consorts” and also include the first English piece scored for trombone or sackbut.

Recordings

Ludwig Guttler Brass Ensemble
Courtly Masquing Ayres Nos. 18, 19 and 20
Capriccio 10 146 (CD: English Brass Music of the 17th Century)

Richard Searles
Courtly Masquing Ayres Nos.4 and 5
Sundown SUN-589D (CD: Dream of the Troubadour)
Guitar – Richard Searles
Guitar – Gilbert Yslas

The American Brass Quintet recordings
Masquing Ayre
Summit DCD 181 (CD: Fyre & Lightning)

Sources:

  1. http://www.shipbrook.com/jeff/adson.html
  2. http://www.virtuallybaroque.com/bioadson.htm
  3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sackbut