Robert Woodcock and "Orpheus with His Lute: Music for Shakespeare from Purcell to Arne"
Overview of Robert Woodcock
Robert Woodcock (c. 1690–1728) was an English marine painter, musician, and composer active during the Baroque period. Known for his contributions to instrumental music, he published the earliest known flute concertos and the earliest known English oboe concertos. His work holds a significant place in early 18th-century English music.
Woodcock’s Musical Legacy
Woodcock’s "XII Concertos in Eight Parts" are among the earliest collections of concertos written for wind instruments in England. His music represents the evolving tastes of the period, with concertos for flute and oboe that are considered some of the first published works for those instruments in England. These concertos remain notable for their inventive use of wind instruments.
Woodcock’s Role in 'Orpheus with His Lute'
The album "Orpheus with His Lute: Music for Shakespeare from Purcell to Arne" (English Orpheus 50) is a curated exploration of music inspired by Shakespeare’s plays, featuring works spanning from the Restoration era to the early 18th century. Within this program, a concerto by Robert Woodcock is included to exemplify the kind of instrumental music that would have been performed in London theaters around 1700. The inclusion of Woodcock’s concerto alongside works by Purcell, Weldon, Clarke, and others illustrates his music’s relevance during an era when theatrical productions often featured elaborate musical accompaniments.
Performance and Recording
The recording features soprano Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments, and director Peter Holman, all specialists in historically informed Baroque performance. This performance showcases the innovative blend of literature and music, highlighting once again the limitless creativity in the world of art. With each note played, you'll be transported seeing the words of the Bard come to life, walking the thin line enthralled between poetry and music.
Whether you're a fervent fan of Shakespeare, a classical music aficionado, or simply an art lover, this delightful treat from Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments, and Peter Holman is one you should not miss. Dive into this exceptional soundscape and witness the timeless tales of Shakespeare beautifully transmuted into the universal language of music.