Ferdinando Richardson facts for kids
Ferdinando Richardson (also known as Sir Ferdinando Heyborne) was an English composer and musician. He also worked for the royal family. He lived from about 1558 to 1618.
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Who Was Ferdinando Richardson?
Ferdinando Richardson learned music from a famous teacher named Thomas Tallis. Tallis was a very important English composer. Some of Richardson's keyboard music can still be found today. It is in a special old book called the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book.
His Music and Letters
In 2013, a collection of his music was recorded. This recording was called Complete Works for Harpsichord. It was performed by an American musician named Glen Wilson. The recording won an award in 2014.
In 1611, Ferdinando Richardson sent some music exercises to Sir Michael Hicks. These exercises were for Sir Michael's daughter to practice on her virginal. A virginal is an old keyboard instrument, similar to a small harpsichord. Richardson signed this letter "Fer: Heyborn."
Working for the Royal Family
Ferdinando Richardson was also a "courtier." This means he worked for the royal family. He held an important job called Groom of the Privy Chamber. He worked for two famous rulers:
His Legacy and Tomb
Ferdinando Richardson's family tomb is in All Hallows' Church in Tottenham. An inscription on his tomb describes him. It says he was a "Knight" and a "justice of the peace." This means he was a respected leader and helped keep order in his local area.
The inscription also says he "waited at the feet of Queen Elizabeth" and King James. This means he served them closely in their private rooms. It also mentions he was a fair leader. He was also a "true friend to the cause of the poor." This shows he cared about helping people in need.
