Thomas Ravenscroft

Thomas Ravenscroft was a notable English musician, composer, and music theorist of the Renaissance era. Born around 1588 in Sussex, England, he likely sang in the choir of St. Paul's Cathedral from a young age and later studied at Cambridge, graduating in 1605. Ravenscroft is best known for compiling collections of English folk music, including **Pammelia** (1609), **Deuteromelia** (1609), and **Melismata** (1611), which feature rounds, catches, and other traditional songs like "Three Blind Mice". He also published a metrical psalter, **The Whole Booke of Psalmes**, in 1621, and composed various sacred works such as anthems and motets. Ravenscroft's contributions to music theory are evident in his treatises, including **A Briefe Discourse of the True (but Neglected) Use of Charact'ring the Degrees** (1614). He served as music master at Christ's Hospital from 1618 to 1622. Ravenscroft's work aimed to appeal to a broad audience, particularly the middle class, and his collections remain significant for understanding early English popular music.

The recent releases listed do not appear to be directly associated with Thomas Ravenscroft's original works but rather interpretations or arrangements of his music. His legacy continues to influence contemporary musicians and musicologists interested in historical folk music and early English compositions.

Genres

Folk

Classical

World

Baroque

Choral

Traditional Music

Early Music

Renaissance

Medieval

Madrigal

Latest Release

There Were Three Ravens. Songs, Rounds and Catches by Thomas Ravenscroft

Thomas Ravenscroft

Album - 20 Tracks - Released March 15, 2024