It is easy to recognise the Scotch and Irish tunes that Purcell (1659-1695) incorporated into his jigs, hornpipes and chaconnes. Though he is the only composer on this programme, the variety of moods that follow one another or collide, ranging from gentle melancholy to lighter songs, reveal the immense richness of the English composer and show not only his extraordinarily varied palette but also the ever-changing light the ensemble shines on his music. Countertenor Tim Mead punctuates the dances with airs conceived for the opera and theatre stage, as well as for chamber music.