The prayer books written by Thomas Cranmer in 1549 and 1552 brought about a fundamental unification of the liturgy in the Reformed Church under Edward VI. These works marked the beginning of a new, more Protestant-influenced phase of the English Reformation. In addition to the Office and the Eucharist, baptism, marriage, and funeral rites were also significantly altered.
The liturgical schedule was reduced to two main services: Matins and Evensong. Readings and Psalms were retained, with the Psalter now to be read in its entirety each month. Longer passages from the Bible were integrated, and two readings were introduced for each service. Elements such as antiphons and responsories were omitted, while the use of English in worship was emphasized.
Both the morning and evening services began with responsories, continued with psalms and biblical readings, and included hymns, the Apostles' Creed, and intercessions. Cranmer favored clear, simple musical arrangements, which influenced composers of the time. After the return to Catholic traditions under Mary I, Elizabeth I, who herself had a great interest in music, fostered the further development of anthems and canticles.
William Byrd, a devout Catholic, composed in various styles for the Anglican Church and proved to be extremely prolific. His career began at a young age, notably with his renowned work "Great Service," known for its dramatic text interpretation and complex musical structure.
His works are characterized by both restraint and emotional and harmonic richness. Byrd favored sophisticated structures over simple four-part writing, creating vibrant and impactful music. The Elizabethan style, marked by imitation, homophony, and polyphonic combinations, is reflected in his compositions.
The program concludes with a selection of keyboard pieces from "My Lady Nevells Booke," a purely instrumental manuscript by Byrd. The stylistic diversity and sophistication are particularly evident there, thanks to unusual motifs and complex musical structures.