Communion Service (Wanley Partbooks, 8th setting))

This anonymous setting of the Communion Service was compiled for the Wanley Partbooks, dating from the late 16th or early 17th century. The composer's intent is to create a devout atmosphere for the English vernacular liturgy. The work is written for TTBBB, a rich consort of five male voices, allowing for sonorous harmonies and a powerful declamation of the sacred text. The music would have been sung in an English church or chapel, contributing to the solemnity of the communion rite. Its inclusion in the Wanley Partbooks suggests it was a valued part of the repertoire for the specific musical establishment for which the books were created.