Born:
1659, his father was a musician who belonged to the Chapel Royal. His brother, Daniel, was also a composer, chorister and organist. When Henry Purcell died, Daniel completed his unfinished compositions. Henry Purcell's son, Edward, also became a musician and Edward's son, Edward Henry, also became a musician.
Birthplace:
London, England
Died:
November 21, 1695 in London
Also Known As:
"English Orpheus", one of the great composers of the Baroque period and one of the great English composers. He was also a chorister at the Chapel Royal and an organist of Westminster Abbey
Type of Compositions:
He wrote among others,
operas, incidental stage music, chamber music including
suites and
sonatas. church music and court music. Purcell was also a songwriter, he wrote over 100 songs.
Influence:
His father was a musician.
Notable Works:
One of his most notable work is the opera "Dido and Aeneas" which he originally wrote for a girl's school situated in Chelsea. He also wrote four semi-operas namely; "Dioclesian", "King Arthur", "The Fairy Queen" and "The Indian Queen".
Interesting Fact:
Purcell provided music for the funeral of Queen Mary in 1695. Later that year, in November, Purcell would also pass away.
Music Sample:
Incidental Music from the "Fairy Queen" - Rondeau
