Next, William Byrd’s composition (1538-1623), “Carmen’s Whistle” was well performed by pianist Shackelford on the harpsichord.

The recorder quartet mentioned above then joined her to play “Sellenger’s Round,” also by William Byrd. At this point in the program, it was a mentioned, after a short demonstration, that the clavichord was the precursor to the piano.

The strings are hit, whereas the harpsichord’s are plucked. The clavichord has a very soft sound and was never played in public due to this softness.

The vocal and very enjoyable segment of the afternoon was in two parts: Songs from Shakespeare’s plays, “Rest Sweet Nymphs” by Francis Pilkington (1565-1638) and “Tomorrow is St. Valentine’s Day,” a traditional melody from the 1500s and one of Ophelia’s mad songs from “Hamlet”; and Madrigals by foremost composer Thomas Morley (1557-1602), “April is in My Mistress’ Face” and “Sing We and Chant It.”

The former was performed by sopranos Jenkins and Comer; the latter by the quintet of Jenkins and Comer, alto Jeanette Shackelford, tenor Ellen Harvey Zipf and John Gardner, bass.

What a splendid and informative afternoon! In Elizabethan England everyone was expected to perform, especially to sing, and live music was an integral part of life at social gatherings.

So, too, in today’s time for FMC members. This day was a fine example of that.

Hear ye, hear ye! Mark your calendars for FMC’s upcoming public performances at Isothermal Community College on Jan. 10, 2013, and its public organ program at Tryon Presbyterian Church on March 14, 2013.

Both events will be at 3 p.m. FMC enjoys performing for its very supportive community. Concerts will be free. Donations are much appreciated.

– article submitted by E. Harvey Zipf.