Emma Kirkby Essentials

This soprano's bright, bell-clear voice has become as crucial a part of the fabric of many contemporary performances of early music as the lute, mandolin or harpsichord. She's a favourite accompanying vocalist for nearly any chamber ensemble or orchestra delving into pre-Classical compositions, both for her musical talent and her attentiveness to the historical contexts of these works. Here, she displays her vocal fluency, agility and precision alongside world-class groups in an array of pieces both sacred and secular.