Published:

My Ladye Nevells Booke

One of the most beautifully written music manuscripts to survive from the late 16th century has gone on show in Scotland for the first time in what has been described as a major coup for Aberdeen Art Gallery.

Still preserved in its original ornate binding, My Ladye Nevells Booke contains 42 pieces for keyboard by William Byrd – the greatest English composer of his age.

Compiled painstakingly by the Windsor-based scribe John Baldwin, who completed it on September 11, 1591, the book will remain on show until August 2.

Dr Nicolas Bell, curator of music manuscripts at the British Library, said: “My Ladye Nevells Booke is one of the most beautifully written music books in existence, and it is one of our most exciting acquisitions for many years.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to display this masterpiece of Elizabethan calligraphy in Aberdeen, the first time it has travelled north of the border.”

Deirdre Grant, cultural promotions officer at Aberdeen City Council, said the council was working with the University of Aberdeen’s music department to provide an exciting range of talks and recitals illustrating the composer’s music.

There will be a recital of Byrd’s music between 12.45 and 1.30pm at the Cowdray Hall, in Schoolhill, today featuring singer Frauke Jurgensen accompanied by David Smith on the harpsichord.

Until August 2 at Aberdeen Art Gallery, Schoolhill, Aberdeen. For further information about the programme of events, contact the gallery on 01224 523700 or visit www.aberdeencity.gov.uk