Purcell, Henry 1659 - 1695
Author: Saitoh, Noriko
Last updated：August 1, 2008
Author: Saitoh, Noriko
A leading English composer of the late 17th century, he composed numerous anthems. His free-spirited nature is evident in the irregularities found in themes and phrasing consisting of odd numbers of measures, the clash between meter and rhythm, and the development of musical ideas. Among his works for keyboard instruments is A Choice Collection of Lessons for the Harpsichord or Spinnet (1696).
While a member of the Chapel Royal choirboys, he studied through the works of Gibbons and Byrd. Upon his voice breaking, he began serving as an assistant for the preservation, repair, and tuning of royal instruments. At the age of 18, he became the resident composer for the Royal String Orchestra, and subsequently served as organist at Westminster Abbey and the Chapel Royal.
Works(14)
Piano Solo (6)
pieces (5)
Various works (4)