Cornysh or Cornyshe, William

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Cornysh or Cornyshe, William

Cornysh or Cornyshe, William , English composer, poet, dramatist, and actor; b. place and date unknown; d. probably in Hylden, Kent, c.Oct. 1523. He was active at the court from 1494, and was made a Gentleman of the Chapel Royal. From 1509 he served as Master of the Children there. He was the most prominent figure in the production of the court dramas and entertainments, and he also accompanied the Chapel Royal to France on several occasions in the retinue of King Henry VIII. Some of his sacred vocal works are found in the Eton Choirbook. In addition to his Magnificats, Stabat mater, Ave Maria Mater Dei, and motets, he distinguished himself as a composer of part songs.

—Laura Kuhn/Dennis McIntire

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