La Nébuleuse / Gabriel Rignol

Antonin Rondepierre, tenor
Gabriel Rignol, lute

This programme, led by tenor Antonin Rondepierre and lutenist Gabriel Rignol, offers an immersion in 17th-century English vocal and instrumental music. Entitled ‘Life of a young man’, the musical narrative traces the stages of a man’s life, from his first stirrings of emotion to maturity, exploring themes of desire, melancholy and solitude.

The structure of the concert is built upon the genius of Henry Purcell, whose theatrical arias mark the transition to the flamboyant Baroque era. This body of work engages with the older tradition of John Dowland’s lute songs and the works of court composers such as William and Henry Lawes. The programme is further distinguished by the inclusion of pieces by Lady Mary Dering, one of the few female composers of the era, as well as rare instrumental excerpts from the Tabley House manuscript.

Together, the performers explore the subtlety of English declamation and the rich sound of the voice-lute duo. Ranging from nocturnal introspection to a vibrant celebration of ‘Carpe Diem’, this musical journey offers a comprehensive and sensitive insight into artistic creation across the Channel, from the Elizabethan era to the end of the Stuart period.

Henry PURCELL
Music for a While

John WELDON
Wakeful nightingale

Henry PURCELL
Sweeter than roses
One charming night

Peter WARNER (Tabley House MS)
A Short

Anonyme (Tabley House MS)
A Tune

John DOWLAND
White as lilies

Lady DEERINGS
When first I saw fair Doris eyes

John DOWLAND
Can she excuse

Henry PURCELL
Chacony Z.730

Henry PURCELL
Oh lead me to some peaceful gloom

Lady DEERINGS
A False designe to be cruell

Henry PURCELL
O Solitude

John WELDON
Take O Take those lips away

John DOWLAND
Flow my tears

William WEBB
Powerful Morpheus

MR CHARLES (Tabley House MS)​
A Toy

Henry PURCELL
A prince of glorious race descended

William LAWES
Gather ye rosebuds

Henry LAWES
Careless of love

Henry PURCELL
Strike the viole