English Virginalist School facts for kids

The English Virginalist School was a group of amazing English composers from the late 1500s and early 1600s. They wrote music mainly for keyboard instruments. Even though they are called "virginalists," their music wasn't just for the virginals. It sounded great on other instruments too, like the harpsichord, clavichord, or even a small chamber organ. The name "virginalist" actually became popular much later, in the 1800s.

Sometimes, this term also includes other European composers from the same time, like Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck and Samuel Scheidt.

Who Were the English Virginalists?

These are some of the most famous composers who were part of the English Virginalist School. They created beautiful and complex music that is still enjoyed today.

Important Music Collections

The music of the Virginalist School was collected in special books. These collections help us learn about the music from that time and how it was played.

See Also

• Virginals
• Composers of the Tudor period