Jennie Cassidy director, mezzo-soprano Philip Thorby viol/recorder Jacob Heringman lute

Frottola’s captivating and dynamic concerts use drama and visual art to engage a broad audience. Their concert The English Nightingale uses songs, instrumental divisions and readings to explore the music of England and Holland during the 17th century. Divisions from Van Eyck’s unique collection for solo recorder are interspersed with the lyrical English songs which inspired them by Dowland and others. Alongside this are lute variations on the same tunes by the Dutch composer Van den Hove. Performed from memory Love is a Bable considers the perennial joys and sorrows of Love through some of the most exquisite Elizabethan songs. As well as concerts Frottola can arrange pre-concert talks and provide outstanding workshops for both children and adults.

Sample Programme:

The French Ambassadors produced in conjunction with the National Gallery (available on CD) uses details from the painting, readings and music from the courts of Henry VIII and Francis I to animate Holbein’s extraordinary masterpiece. ‘A fascinating musical survey of the music of Henry VIII’s early reign, all linked closely to Holbein’s famous painting.’ Classic CD

Education:

Schools - a fully qualified and experienced teacher, Jennie Cassidy gives workshops on The Tudors to tie in with the National Curriculum. This includes a summary of Tudor life at court, a demonstration and opportunity to play many historic instruments, simple instrument making, cooking, singing and dancing. Adult workshops of Renaissance music for players and singers led by Philip Thorby.

Recordings:

The French Ambassadors: Music from the French and English Tudor Courts based on Holbein’s painting. Meridian Records ref: CDE 84397

Performances:

15 Jan 06 Debenham, Suffolk
20 May 06 Cossington Concerts, Somerset
16 Jul 06 Highfields Early Music Festival

Contact:

Jennie Cassidy, 62 Constable Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 2UZ

Tel: 01473 250284

Email: Jennie.Cassidy@btinternet.com
Website: http://www.btinternet.com/~jennie.cassidy/