What is Henry Purcell most known for?
Henry Purcell, (born c. 1659, London, England—died November 21, 1695, London), English composer of the middle Baroque period, most remembered for his more than 100 songs; a tragic opera, Dido and Aeneas; and his incidental music to a version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream called The Fairy Queen.
What year did Henry write his only true opera?
1689
In 1689 he wrote his only true opera, which was called ‘Dido and Aeneas. ‘ It was a miniature opera that was intended to be performed at a girls’ school in Chelsea.
What is the last name Purcell?
English, Welsh, and Irish (of Norman origin): from Old French pourcel ‘piglet’ (Latin porcellus, a diminutive of porcus ‘pig’), hence a metonymic occupational name for a swineherd, or a nickname, perhaps affectionate in tone. This is a common surname in Ireland, having become established there in the 12th century.
Where did Henry Purcell get his music from?
Henry Purcell’s origins are a bit obscure. He was born circa 1659 in London, England. His father was employed at the Chapel Royal, a training ground for court musicians. Henry was a chorister there as a young boy.
How old was Henry Purcell when he died?
Born in 1659, Henry Purcell was the finest and most original composer of his day. Though he was to live a very short life (he died in 1695) he was able to enjoy and make full use of the renewed flowering of music after the Restoration of the Monarchy.
What did Dominic Purcell do in his life?
But in that short period of time he rose to a level of greatness that very few can achieve. Purcell was son to a court musician and he held different important music positions in life which include being a Royal Chapel chorister and other royal appointments throughout his life.
When did Henry Purcell write his first opera?
He wrote music for seven plays between 1680 and 1688. It is believed that he composed his chamber opera, ‘Dido and Aeneas’ during this period. He wrote the music to a libretto by Nahum Tate, and the opera was performed in collaboration with the choreographer, Josias Priest.