Introducing Dame Emma Kirkby feels entirely unnecessary—and I won’t even try. She and Anthony Rooley (her former husband) formed the legendary Consort of Musicke and have continued to collaborate even after their separation. This all-Dowland album is a wonderful example of their ongoing partnership, performed with the unique insight of this exquisite singer.
It’s not about the voice alone—it’s about the razor-sharp intellect, the clarity of enunciation (so rare among sopranos), and the birdlike timbre that sets Dame Emma apart from just about everyone else. The text feels almost unnecessary—but it’s included anyway—because she communicates everything so directly. I’m in total awe of her. And Tony certainly doesn’t make things any less brilliant!
