Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Spain

Birth

:

June 12, 1468 in Salamanca, Spain

Death

:

August 30, 1529 in Toledo, Spain

Period

:

Renaissance

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Juan del Encina was a Spanish composer, poet, and playwright who lived during the Renaissance period. He was born in 1468 in Salamanca, Spain, and was the son of a wealthy family. Encina was educated at the University of Salamanca, where he studied law and theology. However, he was more interested in music and poetry, and he began to compose music and write poetry at a young age. Encina's musical career began in the court of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, where he served as a singer and musician. He also worked as a chaplain and music teacher for the royal family. Encina's music was influenced by the popular music of the time, as well as by the music of the church. He wrote both secular and religious music, and his compositions were known for their simplicity and elegance. Encina's most famous works are his villancicos, which were popular songs that were sung during the Christmas season. These songs were often performed in the streets and in churches, and they were known for their catchy melodies and simple lyrics. Encina's villancicos were particularly popular in Spain, and they helped to establish him as one of the most important composers of his time. Encina also wrote several plays, which were performed in the court of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. These plays were known as "entremeses," which were short, comic plays that were performed between the acts of longer plays. Encina's entremeses were known for their humor and satire, and they were often performed in the streets and in public squares. Encina's music and poetry were highly regarded during his lifetime, and he was considered one of the most important composers of the Renaissance period. His influence can be seen in the works of later composers, such as Tomás Luis de Victoria and Francisco Guerrero. Encina died in 1529 in León, Spain, but his music and poetry continue to be performed and studied today.

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