Search - David Munrow :: Instruments of the Middle Age and Renaissance

A "must have" for anyone interested in early music!

N. Fronczak | Warren, MI | 09/22/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I originally bought the vinyl recording when it first came out all those years ago as someone who was greatly interested in studying musicology and becoming a performer. Well, time marched on and I never got to be that musicologist/performer and with the latest technology, this particular recording was closed to me. But now I'm extremely happy to have acquired this CD version! What absolutely terrific music and a most well thought out, informative and enjoyable performance by the Early Music Consort of London. I always was a big fan of David Munrow and what he was doing at the time. And 30 years later it still stands up well and is just as fresh and alive when I first played that LP. I only regret that they didn't reprint the exhaustive book that went along with the original set of LPs. However, I have seen it here for sale at reasonable prices. you must have the book to go along with the music because it shows ALL of the instruments being played as also their history and function as described by Mr. Munrow. It IS a musicological education in and of itself and certainly would advise ANYONE who has more than just a passing interest in the periods of the Middle Ages/Renaissance to buy this CD before it too becomes out of print. This CD certainly should be added to anyone's collection of music regardless if it's based in "classical" or jazz. A BIG part of musical history not to be missed!"

Kind of misses the point...

J. Wood | Santa Fe, NM USA | 06/12/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"... since the recordings are primarily examples of the instruments discussed in the extremely informative 90 page book that originally came with the LP version. Luckily, used copies of the book are available separately (though some of those are quite pricey)."

Know what you are listening to

P. Reed | Detroit, MI | 09/18/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you enjoy listening to music of the middle ages and renaissance this recording will enhance your pleasure. After listening a few times you be able to recogzize the instruments being played. Munrow remains the expert. The vinyl, which I purchased years ago, came with a wonderful book which, unfortunately, the CD does not replicate. However, you don't absolutely need it to enjoy this CD and learn from it."