John Ward (composer)

John Ward (1571–1638) was an English composer who was a contemporary of John Dowland.

Born in Canterbury, John Ward was a chorister at Canterbury Cathedral. He went to London where he served Sir Henry Fanshawe both as an attorney in the Exchequer and as a musician. Ward married and had three children. He moved to Essex by 1636 and died there at Ilford Magna in 1638.

Ward composed madrigals, works for viol consort, services, and anthems. His madrigals are remarkable for their fine texts, broad melodic lines and originality.

Works, editions and recordings

First Set of English Madrigals of three, four, five, and six parts, apt both for Viols and Voices ; with a mourning song, in memory of Prince Henry. Newly composed by John Ward. 1613 Edition: ed Fellowes, EM 19 1922, 1968 (rev). Recordings

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