Henry Purcell

Henry Purcell (Known as "Purcell")

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Born 1

London, England

Passed Away Nov 21, 1695 London, England

Lifespan 36 years old

1,123 views

Notice / Correction

"Here lies Henry Purcell Esq., who left this life and is gone to that blessed place where only his harmony can be exceeded."

Archival Overview

Greatest English Baroque composer whose sublime theatrical music, anthems, and opera Dido and Aeneas defined British music.

Biographical Record

Henry Purcell is universally recognized as one of the greatest English composers of all time. Serving as organist of Westminster Abbey and the Chapel Royal under Charles II, James II, and William III, Purcell synthesized French and Italian stylistic innovations into a uniquely English Baroque aesthetic.

His output spans sacred anthems, royal odes, chamber sonatas, and incidental stage music. His immortal chamber opera Dido and Aeneas (c. 1689), featuring Dido's haunting ground-bass lament 'When I am laid in earth', remains one of the supreme triumphs in the operatic canon. Purcell died at the pinnacle of his powers at the age of 36 and was laid to rest adjacent to the organ in Westminster Abbey.

Key Life Milestones

1679

Organist of Westminster Abbey

Appointed organist at Westminster Abbey at age twenty, dedicating his creative life to the royal court and church.

1689

Dido and Aeneas

Composed England's first undisputed operatic masterpiece, culminating in the timeless 'Dido's Lament'.

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Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

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Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Westminster Abbey
London, United Kingdom

                         GPS: 51.4994, -0.1274                    

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