The Last of the Troubadours: The Art & Times of Guiraut Riquier 1230 - 1292

Guiraut Riquier is the last known exemplar of the long tradition of sung poetry which began in South West France at the end of the 11th century. Requier believes in the old ways of troubadour art, the old values it represents. This disc traces his wanderings in search of recognition. Riquier's surviving melodies number 48, and the selection on this disc are approached with regard to both main rhythmic theories of transcription. Martin Best has been called the 'first great contemporary Troubadour' for his performance of the Minstrel and Troubadour tradition from the Middle Ages to the present day.

"Best's anthology is expertly assembled and skilfully performed. It displays the sardonic humour and ribaldry of troubadour lyrics as well as their elaborately sentimental courtliness. I can only applaud Best's continuing championing of troubadour art."
Classic CD

Recorded in 1981