Donald Macleod explores the music Purcell wrote to mark specific occasions, and reveals the impact that changes in monarch had on his work.

This week of programmes sets Purcell’s work during his short life in the context of the turbulent times in which he lived. This was a period of intense political and social change, encompassing three different monarchies, the plague, the Great Fire of London, and the arrival of another deadly pandemic.

By 1687 London’s royal musicians were in rebellious mood, letting their performances at chapel slip. This disobedience was being mirrored by the public at large. Bungling James II had alienated large swathes of the country, as well as influential groups like the bishops, who had wide popular respect. When the King’s court case against the bishops failed humiliatingly, Londoners celebrated wildly. It was the beginning of the end for this unpopular ruler.

As a twenty-something court composer, Purcell wrote his first ode to celebrate Charles II’s return from summering in Windsor. When William and Mary took the throne in 1689, Purcell wrote odes for special occasions such as the return of the monarchy to court. And for the coronation itself he turned from composer into ticket tout – selling viewing tickets for Westminster Abbey’s organ loft, which was under his control.

Some of Purcell’s most celebrated work was written as birthday odes for Queen Mary, but by far his most famous and enduring music was that written for her funeral in 1695.

I was glad when they said unto me, Z19
Westminster Abbey Choir
Harry Bicket, organ
Simon Preston, director

Now does the glorious day appear Z332 (opening chorus)
Julia Gooding, soprano
James Bowman, countertenor
Howard Crook, tenor
Michael George, bass-baritone
Choir and Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
Gustav Leonhardt, conductor

Love’s goddess sure was blind, Z331 (excerpts)
Julia Gooding, soprano
James Bowman, countertenor
Christopher Robson, countertenor
David Wilson-Johnson, baritone
Choir and Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
Gustav Leonhardt, conductor

From hardy Climes and dangerous Toils of War Z325 (excerpts)
Katy Hill, soprano
Kirsty Hopkins, soprano
Jeremy Budd, tenor
Mark Dobell, tenor
The Sixteen
Harry Christophers, conductor

March and Canzona in C minor, Z860
Philip Jones Brass Ensemble
Philip Ledger, conductor

Produced by Iain Chambers Show less