Symphonies, op. 2

If you’ve never heard of William Boyce, you’re not alone; although he was an influential figure in English baroque music, his fame didn’t persist for long after his death, and it wasn’t until the 20th century that the world began paying attention to his music again. This wonderful recording of his overtures to various odes and theater works (called “symphonies” according to the usage of the day, although they aren’t symphonic works as the term is currently understood) shows clearly what we’ve been missing by neglecting his music for so long. Lilting melodies and lush arrangements are everywhere, written in a variety of danceable time signatures. The Academy of Ancient Music have a particular affinity for English music of this period, and this is among the group’s most attractive recordings.