Thomas Weelkes

Thomas Weelkes, born in 1576, was a prominent English composer and organist, celebrated as one of the finest Tudor composers. His works, primarily vocal, include sacred pieces like canticles, anthems, and verse anthems, as well as renowned madrigals that place him among the greats of the Elizabethan era, alongside Morley, Wilbye, and Gibbons. Weelkes served as organist at Winchester College and later at Chichester Cathedral, though his tenure there was marked by personal struggles. Despite his tumultuous life, his compositions remain a testament to his enduring talent, offering listeners a rich tapestry of Renaissance choral music.