Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

ca. 1612

Death

:

1706

 

Thomas Mace was a 17th-century English composer, lutenist, and music theorist. He was born in 1613 in Salisbury, England, and little is known about his early life. However, it is believed that he received his musical education in London, where he later settled and became a prominent figure in the music scene. Mace was a skilled lutenist and performed in various concerts and musical events throughout his career. He was also a music teacher and wrote several instructional books on music theory and lute playing. His most famous work is "Musick's Monument," a comprehensive guide to music theory and lute playing that was published in 1676. Mace's compositions were primarily for the lute, and he wrote several pieces for solo lute as well as lute duets. His music is characterized by its intricate melodies and complex harmonies, which showcase his technical skill as a composer and performer. Some of his most famous works include "Pavan," "Galliard," and "Almain." In addition to his musical career, Mace was also a member of the Worshipful Company of Musicians, a guild of musicians in London. He was appointed as a liveryman of the company in 1653 and later served as its master in 1675. Mace's contributions to music theory were also significant. In "Musick's Monument," he outlined his theories on tuning and temperament, which were based on the Pythagorean tuning system. He also wrote about the importance of improvisation in music and provided examples of his own improvisations on the lute. Mace's legacy as a composer and music theorist has endured to this day. His works have been performed and recorded by numerous musicians, and his theories on tuning and temperament have influenced modern music theory. He is remembered as one of the most important figures in English music of the 17th century.

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