Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

March, 1574 in Diss, Norfolk, England

Death

:

September, 1638 in Colchester, Essex, England

Period

:

Renaissance

Genre

:

Vocal

 

John Wilbye was an English composer of the Renaissance period, known for his contributions to the genre of madrigals. He was born in Diss, Norfolk, England in 1574, and little is known about his early life and musical training. However, it is believed that he received some education in music, possibly from his father who was a church musician. Wilbye’s career as a composer began in the early 1590s, when he started publishing his works. His first collection of madrigals, titled “The First Set of English Madrigals to 3, 4, 5 and 6 Voices,” was published in 1598. This collection was well-received and established Wilbye as a prominent composer of the time. Over the course of his career, Wilbye published three more collections of madrigals, each one showcasing his skill and versatility as a composer. His second collection, “The Second Set of Madrigals to 3, 4, 5 and 6 Voices,” was published in 1609, followed by “The Third Set of Madrigals to 3, 4, 5 and 6 Voices” in 1611, and “The Fourth Set of Madrigals to 3, 4, 5 and 6 Voices” in 1638. Wilbye’s madrigals are characterized by their intricate harmonies, expressive melodies, and vivid word-painting. He was particularly skilled at setting English texts to music, and his madrigals often featured witty and playful lyrics. Some of his most famous works include “Adieu, Sweet Amaryllis,” “Draw on, Sweet Night,” and “Weep, Weep, Mine Eyes.” In addition to his madrigals, Wilbye also composed a number of sacred works, including anthems and motets. His sacred music is less well-known than his madrigals, but it is still highly regarded for its beauty and craftsmanship. Despite his success as a composer, Wilbye lived a relatively quiet life. He never held a position as a court musician, and little is known about his personal life. He died in 1638, at the age of 64, and was buried in the churchyard of St. Mary’s Church in Harefield, Middlesex. Today, John Wilbye is remembered as one of the greatest English composers of the Renaissance period. His madrigals continue to be performed and recorded by choirs around the world, and his influence can be heard in the works of later composers such as Henry Purcell and Benjamin Britten.

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