Classical Composers A-Z: Thomas Tomkins
Peter Wintersgill tells of an early Welsh composer.
Thomas Tomkins, 1572 - 1656
Born
1572 in St. David’s, Pembroke.
Family
Musical for three generations.
Adult life
Pupil of Byrd's. Organist of Worcester Cathedral from 1596, and of Chapel Royal from 1621.
Published a book Songs and Madrigals (1622), containing many madrigals, over 50 keyboard pieces and pavans, pieces for virginals and viols.
He died 9th June, 1656, in Martin Hasingtree, Worcester, aged 84.
