Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

ca. 1490 in South Lincolnshire, England

Death

:

October 18, 1545 in Boston, Lincolnshire, England

Period

:

Renaissance

Genre

:

Choral

 

John Taverner was a renowned English composer of the Renaissance era, born in the year 1490 in the village of Tattershall, Lincolnshire. He was the son of a farmer and grew up in a family that was musically inclined. Taverner's early musical education was at the choir school of the Benedictine abbey in nearby Boston, where he was a chorister. He later went on to study at Oxford University, where he was a member of the choir of Cardinal College (now Christ Church). Taverner's early works were influenced by the English choral tradition, which was characterized by rich harmonies and complex polyphony. His first major composition was a mass setting, which he wrote while he was still a student at Oxford. This work, known as the Western Wynde Mass, is one of the earliest examples of a mass based on a secular tune. After completing his studies at Oxford, Taverner returned to Lincolnshire, where he worked as a musician and composer for various churches and noble families. In 1526, he was appointed as the master of the choristers at Cardinal Wolsey's newly founded Cardinal College in Oxford. It was during this time that he composed some of his most famous works, including the Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas and the Missa Mater Christi sanctissima. Taverner's music was highly regarded during his lifetime, and he was considered one of the leading composers of his time. His works were performed at the royal court and in churches throughout England. However, his career was not without controversy. In 1530, he was accused of heresy and was forced to recant his beliefs. He was also briefly imprisoned for his association with the Catholic Church during the reign of King Edward VI. Despite these setbacks, Taverner continued to compose music throughout his life. His later works were influenced by the emerging Protestant tradition, and he wrote several English anthems and hymns. He also continued to write masses, including the Missa Corona spinea, which is considered one of his most complex and ambitious works. Taverner's music was characterized by its rich harmonies, complex polyphony, and use of plainchant. He was known for his skillful use of counterpoint, which allowed him to create intricate and beautiful musical textures. His works were also notable for their use of symbolism and religious imagery, which reflected his deep faith and devotion to the Catholic Church. Today, Taverner is remembered as one of the greatest composers of the Renaissance era. His works continue to be performed and recorded by choirs and orchestras around the world. His legacy has also inspired generations of composers, who have sought to emulate his mastery of polyphony and his ability to create music that is both beautiful and deeply spiritual.

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