In 1651, John Playford published the English Dancing Master, the first book to give directions for English country-dances along with their tunes. The beauty of the tunes and the elegance and vitality of the dances combine to give them wide-spread popularity throughout America and England. Charles Ward, a master dance musician, has combined his two great skills in the CD. His choice of organ stops, his delicacy of phrasing, his intricate weavings of the melodic lines, his inspired improvisations, and his varied harmonies illuminate the character of each tune, from lyrical sweetness to triumphant energy. - Marshall Barron, Playford Consort Publications