Newe Vialles, Old Viols offers a meticulously crafted exploration of 17th-century English music for two historical bass viols and continuo. Performed by the ensemble Newe Vialles—founded by Henrik Persson and Caroline Ritchie, with lutenist Lynda Sayce and guitarist James Akers—the album features works by prominent composers for the viol, including John Jenkins and Christopher Simpson, alongside lesser-known pieces by Daniel Norcombe, William Young, and Benjamin Hely.

In addition to the polyphonic music for viol consort, the viol became an instrument on which players would extemporise divisions, or variations, over popular melodies or ground basses. In Newe Vialles, Old Viols, the ensemble brings this vibrant, improvisatory music to life, performing divisions and duos from the late 17th century as well as the earliest English sonatas for viols. The recording showcases two stunning original viols by John Pitts (1675) and Edward Lewis (1703), exploring the repertoire that the original owners of these instruments might have played.

Composers like Jenkins and Simpson are celebrated for their contributions to the viol consort tradition, but were equally at home in the more modern style of writing for one or two solo instruments with continuo. Their divisions stretch the technical limits of the viol while also drawing on the popular tunes and dances of the time. In this recording, the two viols are accompanied by plucked continuo instruments—theorbo and guitar—whose realisation of the continuo contributes to the improvisatory feel of the performance.

Newe Vialles, Old Viols is available now, providing a compelling addition to the study and appreciation of English early music and its instrumental traditions, and offering a rare opportunity to hear two unique surviving original viols. You can read about the inspiration behind this recording in our feature. In addition, Henrik Persson has recorded a CD of solo music for viol, The Edward Lewis Viol of 1703, which highlights that beautiful instrument and charts the development of solo viol music from Hume to Telemann.

Both albums will be released on Barn Cottage Records on 1st November 2024 and can be purchased from their website.