William Byrd
William Byrd (1543-1623), English composer. An organist at Lincoln Cathedral (1563-72), he then’ became joint organist with his teacher, Thomas Tallis, at the Chapel Royal, London. Together they wrote Piae Cantiones (1575) for Elizabeth I. Although Byrd was a Roman Catholic he managed to retain the regard and patronage of the Queen. Known as the father of key-board music, he wrote over 120 pieces for the virginals, as well as Catholic masses and motets, and Anglican services and verse anthems. He also composed three collections of, songs.
