Henry purcell biography opera inglesa

Henry Purcell was one of the most versatile and imaginative composers of the late 17th century. His life and work in London were closely tied to the political and social changes under the reign of three monarchs: Charles II, his brother James II, and William of Orange.

Celebratory odes for royal occasions are a significant part of Purcell’s legacy, which also includes anthems for the coronation of James II and funeral music for Queen Mary. Yet he was as much in demand in the theatre and in domestic music-making as in the church.

Henry purcell biography opera inglesa

Henry purcell biography opera inglesa

Henry purcell biography

Henry purcell canon

English opera songs

Henry purcell works

Much of Purcell’s early life is obscure, even his precise parentage. He became a chorister with the Chapel Royal, where he would have been greatly affected by the revival in church musical life that accompanied the restoration of the monarchy in 1660.

Composers forced into semi-retirement during the Commonwealth returned to the forefront of musical life in London. Moreover, the king liked the kind of church music which he had heard while in exile