George Ferebee facts for kids

George Ferebee (also known as Feribye or Ferrabee) was an English churchman and a talented composer. He lived around the early 1600s and became a chaplain to King James I.

Early Life and Education

George Ferebee was born around 1573. His father was a Gloucestershire yeoman, which meant he was a farmer who owned his land.

When George was about 16, he started studying at the University of Oxford in 1589. He was a chorister (a singer in a choir) at Magdalen College, Oxford until 1591. He earned his first degree (Bachelor of Arts) in 1592 and his Master of Arts degree in 1595.

Church and Music

After his studies, Ferebee became the vicar (a type of priest) of Bishop's Cannings in Wiltshire. He cared a lot about his church. He made sure it had an organ and a set of eight bells for ringing.

Entertaining the Queen

In June 1613, George Ferebee had a special chance to show his musical skills. Queen Anne, who was King James I's wife, was traveling from Bath. As she rested at Wensdyke (also known as Wansdyke), Ferebee put on a show for her.

He dressed up like an old bard (a poet and singer). His students dressed as shepherds. They played music with wind instruments and sang a four-part song. The song started with the words, 'Shine, O thou sacred Shepherds' star.' This creative performance impressed the Queen. Because of this, George Ferebee was given the important job of chaplain to the king.

Published Works

Later that same year, in 1613, a song called "The Shepherd's Songe before Queen Anne" was published. It was a complete musical piece in four parts.

In 1615, Ferebee also published a sermon (a religious speech). It was called 'Life's Farewell' and was given at a funeral in Wiltshire.