Although the cover proclaims the contents to be instrumental airs, dances, and folk tunes from England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and Brittany, Shelley admits, 'It's really music from my own, private, imaginary Renaissance. That pastoral, romantic beautiful world that never really existed except in our reveries.' (And, thanks to Shelley and company, on this 1995 album.) Well, not totally true, that world did exist; most of these tunes are from traditional sources -- an enchanting assortment of Elizabethan songs, traditional Irish airs, Renaissance dances and exquisite classical piecess. Shelley is still a Renaissance woman herself, playing harps, oboe, English horn, recorders and pennywhistle, joined by bassoon, cellos, and other ensemble instruments played by the Friends. Beautifully evocative; recommended, of course!

Phillips,Shelley