Henry VIII

When Henry became king only five musicians were in permanent service to the court. When he died there were 58 resident musicians in service. He himself played upon the organ, lute and virginal. Music lived well at the court for a variety of revels, banquets, visits by heads of state, et al. Henry's leading court musician was William Cornysh. Numerous musicians visited the court and different nationalities were represented indicating Henry's love for music. Approximately 34 compositions were attributed to the king including fremen songs, songs styled in the French manner, rounds, instrumental pieces and a three part motet. Within "Henry VIII's Manuscript" are compositions by Cornysh, Fayrfax, Farthing, Hayne van Ghizeghem, Barbireau and Compere. ~ Keith Johnson, Rovi