East Guldeford Church echoed to the sounds of old English music recently when the ‘Queen’s Consort’ group of musicians under Leader Shirley Carey, performed an evening of music that was likely to have been heard during the reigns of Henry VIII and his daughter Queen Elizabeth 1.
The Queen’s Consort were formed twelve years ago by local musicians who were interested in music of the 16th. and 17th. centuries. It is a fascinating period for musical and artistic study, a time which saw the invention of printing as well as a growth in the skills of instrument making.
Both Henry VIII and his daughter, Queen Elizabeth, were very musical, and sought to enhance their courts with musicians of the highest calibre.
The labourers and peasants always found pleasure and delight in their own music making, albeit with far less sophisticated instruments, and enjoyed dancing at celebrations, both for church worship and village festivals.
Whatever happened in those far off days, the packed congregation at East Guldeford enjoyed their evening of Tudor music.
The Queen’s Consort
Tudor Court musicians performing at East Guldeford were, Katy Alexander, Shirley Carey, Maria Fitsell, Michael Teague, Anne Whiteman and Kay Young.
“Rye’s Own” September 2005
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