Chelmsford Cathedral provides an ideal setting for this extraordinary theatrical and musical event that brings to life the story of one of England’s greatest composers, William Byrd.
Master Byrd, written and performed by Brean Hammond, combines drama and music in a compelling exploration of the man, his genius, and the mysteries that defined his life.
Byrd’s life was full of paradoxes. A devout Catholic in Protestant England and contemporary of Shakespeare, he composed music for Catholic worship at a time when doing so could lead to torture or execution—yet he also served at the heart of Elizabeth I’s Chapel Royal, providing music for the very monarch who upheld the laws against his faith.
While Shakespeare’s words shaped the English stage, Byrd’s music filled the great cathedrals and royal courts, with both artists contributing profoundly to the cultural flourishing of their era.
How did he navigate such contradictions? And what lies at the heart of his music that continues to captivate audiences today?
Our play, set in 1611, unfolds in the form of six short monologues in which Byrd reflects on his life, his faith, his marriage, and his art. Each reflection is interwoven with music, performed live by the acclaimed Cantica Viva choir under the direction of Deborah Davies. Far from being a supporting act, the choir is integral to the drama, responding to Byrd’s thoughts and questions with the music.
The performance carries a special resonance in Chelmsford, just a short distance from Ingatestone Hall, where Byrd composed much of his work. Chelmsford Cathedral’s Director of Music, Emma Gibbins—who also performs as organ soloist in the production—expressed her enthusiasm for the event:
“I’m really excited that we will be presenting Master Byrd at the Cathedral. Brean Hammond’s imaginative script brings the music, life and times of William Byrd to life in a creative and engaging way. The monologue is punctuated by some of Byrd’s most beautiful music and Chelmsford Cathedral is an ideal venue for this performance, as Byrd wrote a lot of his music just up the road at Ingatestone Hall!”
The play has been received warmly at previous venues and now finds a fitting home at Chelmsford Cathedral. Blending theatre, history, and live choral performance, Master Byrd is more than just a play—it’s an immersive experience that invites the audience to step inside the world of one of England’s most enigmatic and brilliant composers.
Event details and booking information can be found on our event pages.