Henry Purcell 1659-1695

Henry Purcell is thought to be one of the greatest composers during the Baroque period in England.  His use of elements from Italian and French music created a unique style of English Baroque music.  Purcell’s works changed throughout his lifetime due to a variety of influences, time period, and his evolving careers.  His works can be divided into five categories; Domestic Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Church Music, Odes and Welcome Songs, and Theatre Music. Purcell’s musical talent allowed him accomplish success in each genre of music.

Key Facts:
• Born In Westminster, London

• Came from a musical family

• As a child he sang in the Chapel Royal and studied with

     Christopher Gibbons, Matthew Locke, an John Blow

• Took over for John Blow as Westminster Chapel organist

• Took over for Matthew Locke as composer for the violins

     at court

• Became one of the 3 organists at the Chapel Royal

• Became the King's Instrument Keeper

• Popular teacher in London

• Was influenced by Italian and French music

• Was admired as a song composer... he "had a peculiar

      genius to express the energy of English words,

      whereby he mov'd the passions of all his auditors"

   Henry Playford

• Wrote domestic vocal music, instrumental music, church

       music, odes and welcome songs, and music for theatre

For a complete list of Purcell's works click on the link below:

http://www.lmconsult.com/xp_op.html

To view a picture of a Hayward Spinet, one which Purcell may have owned and played on, click here:
http://www.usd.edu/nmm/keyboards/HawardSpinet/HawardSpinet.html