Walter Lambe: Celebrated Composer and His Captivating Works
Walter Lambe (born 1450/1451 – after 1504) was a prominent English composer of the late 15th century, associated with the early Renaissance period in England. His music is particularly notable for its presence in some of the era's most significant choral manuscript collections, including the Eton Choirbook, Lambeth Choirbook, and Caius Choirbook. However, his representation is especially significant in the Eton Choirbook, with fewer works identified in the other two manuscripts.
Biographical Highlights
Born in Salisbury, Lambe was elected King's Scholar at Eton College in August 1467 at age 15. He served as a clerk at Holy Trinity College, Arundel by 1477, and at St George's Chapel, Windsor from 1479, where he was also master of the choristers. He held the post jointly until 1480 and on his own from 1482 to 1484.
Notable Works
Lambe’s compositions are well represented in the Eton Choirbook, a vital collection of English church music from the late 15th century. His works highlight his technical mastery, imagination, and a style that combined both old-fashioned and innovative sonorities for the time. Some of his most important works include Ascendit Christus, Magnificat, Nesciens mater virgo virum, O Maria plena gratiae (noteworthy as the longest antiphon in the Eton Choirbook), Salve regina, and Stella caeli. Some works, such as Gaude flore virginali, O Regina caelestis gloriae, and Virgo gaude gloriosa, are now lost.
Musical Characteristics
Lambe’s music is characterized by imaginative counterpoint and technical mastery, at times exceeded only by John Browne among his peers. His compositions offer opportunities for brilliant vocal display, with inventive use of texture and sonority. He blended older compositional techniques—such as limited imitation and open fifth sonorities—with the emerging Renaissance styles. His shorter work, Nesciens mater, contrasts sharply in length and technique with his more expansive compositions.
Experience Lambe's Music with STAGE+
Step into a world of mesmerizing sounds with Walter Lambe's captivating compositions which have enthralled audiences throughout generations. Headlining the showcase is "Stella caeli," a remarkable piece that captures the quintessential spirit of the era. Immerse yourself into an enigmatic blend of classic tunes and melodies, taking you back in time to the very heart of Medieval and Renaissance Europe.
The showcase also features The Hilliard Ensemble, a group known for their exceptional performances of early music. Their interpretations of Lambe's works are testament to their extraordinary talent. Discover the magical world of Walter Lambe's music with STAGE+ and fall in love with the exceptional charm of Medieval and Renaissance music.