Henry Purcell
1659 – 1695
Purcell was the greatest English composer before the 20th century. He mastered word-painting, expressing every emotion in music. His early death at 36 was a tragedy — but his genius lives on.
Essential Listening
Dido and Aeneas - Dido's Lament
Remember me, but forget my fate. Dido's final aria is one of the most heartbreaking farewells in all of music.
Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary
Solemn brass and muffled drums. Purcell wrote this for the queen's funeral — and it was played at his own.
Trumpet Tune (The Trumpet Voluntary)
Stately ceremonial music often heard at weddings. Bright brass and noble bearing — quintessentially English.
Discover Purcell in These Journeys
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