Thomas Cardell facts for kids

Thomas Cardell (died 1621) was a talented musician and dancing master. He played the lute, a stringed instrument popular long ago. Thomas Cardell worked for two important queens: Elizabeth I and Anne of Denmark.

Cardell joined Queen Elizabeth's royal court in 1574. He became her dancing master and lute player. He took over from another musician named Jasper Gaffoyne. In 1575, Thomas Cardell married Ellen Cotton. His sister, Elizabeth, was the mother of another famous lute player and composer, Daniel Bacheler.

Early Royal Service

Thomas Cardell was very good at creating and performing dances. In 1583, he was paid for a dance he put on at a special event called the Masque of Ladies and Boys. This event took place at Windsor Castle. From 1588 onwards, Queen Elizabeth I gave Cardell a yearly payment for his work.

After Queen Elizabeth died, Thomas Cardell attended her funeral. He wore black clothes to show his sadness. He then became a special helper, called a groom of the privy chamber, for Queen Anne of Denmark. Queen Anne had her own musicians, and Cardell joined them.

Traveling with Princess Elizabeth

In the autumn of 1603, a serious illness called the plague was spreading. Queen Anne and her daughter, Princess Elizabeth, traveled to the west of England to stay safe. Thomas Cardell went with them for over three months. He was likely involved in a special performance called a masque in October 1603. This masque was known as Prince Henry's Welcome at Winchester.

A Well-Paid Musician

In January 1604, Thomas Cardell started receiving a large yearly payment. Princess Elizabeth, who was only seven or eight years old, really liked the new dance moves he taught her. She even sent a note to Sir Robert Cecil, an important person at court. She asked him to make sure Cardell could stay close to her and be paid well. This shows how much she valued his teaching.

His Son, Francis Cardell

Thomas Cardell's son, Francis Cardell, also became a musician. He worked for Princess Elizabeth starting in October 1604. He was based at Coombe Abbey. A special book kept track of expenses in the Princess's household. In January 1604, Francis Cardell, as the dancing master, received a ruby ring as a New Year's Day gift. Sadly, Francis died soon after this.

After his son's death, Thomas Cardell took on roles in both Queen Anne's household and Princess Elizabeth's household. His yearly payment was increased, making him one of the highest-paid court musicians. In 1612, he was listed as Princess Elizabeth's dance teacher at the funeral of her brother, Prince Henry.

Later Life and Legacy

Queen Anne of Denmark enjoyed music herself. She played instruments like the virginals and the lira. In July 1614, Queen Anne's brother, Christian IV, secretly visited London. He managed to enter Denmark House without being recognized at first. But "Cardel, a dancer," recognized him in the audience room. A French servant then confirmed it.

Thomas Cardell was so well-known that he was even mentioned in a play! In 1640, a play called The Varietie by William Cavendish and James Shirley talked about him. A character in the play, "Manly," danced an old-fashioned volta dance. This character said he looked like a portrait of Cardell. This shows that Thomas Cardell was a famous and respected figure in his time.