Byrd in the hand.

This article focuses on the keyboard music of William Byrd (c. 1540–1623), examining its compositional forms, performance practice, and interpretation 400 years after his death. Byrd’s keyboard works encompass various styles, including fantasias, variation sets, grounds, pavans and galliards, plainsong fantasias, and character pieces, reflecting both sacred and secular influences. Experts David Ponsford and Pieter-Jan Belder emphasize the versatility of Byrd’s music across instruments such as organ and harpsichord, advocating for flexible programming and informed study of tempi, fingering, and phrasing to capture the music’s vocal origins and rhythmic complexity. The article also highlights key editions and resources for performers and scholars, noting the availability of facsimiles and modern editions that support exploration of Byrd’s repertoire.