biography
pronunciation:
[persel], earlier [per
| sex:
| male
|
| lived:
| (1659–95)
|
| biography:
| Composer, born in London, UK. He was a Chapel Royal chorister, and held posts as organist there and at Westminster Abbey, as well as becoming keeper of the king's instruments (1683). Though his harpsichord pieces and his trio-sonatas for violins and continuo have retained their popularity, he is best known for his vocal and choral works. In his official capacity he produced a number of pieces in celebration of royal birthdays, St Cecilia's Day, and other occasions. He also wrote a great deal of incidental stage music, including The Fairy Queen (1692) and The Tempest (1695), and an opera, Dido and Aeneas (1689). Of his many songs, ‘Nymphs and Shepherds’ is probably the best known. |
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