William Byrd was a gentleman of the Chapel Royal and he composed three masses for the catholic religion : one for three voices, one for four voices and another one for five voices. The intensity of the latter gives evidence of Byrd’s catholic faith ; he nevertheless received Elizabeth I’s considerate protection. He shared a privilege of musical edition with his fellow composer and master,
Thomas Tallis.

Mass for five voices by William Byrd, motets by Thomas Tallis and Robert White.