John Bennet

John Bennet (* about 1575 probably in Lancashire; † after 1614) was an English composer of the Renaissance.

Specific information about his life is not known. It is believed that he was born in North West England about 1575 in Lancashire. This assumption is based on the dedication of his first publication: 1599 appeared in London Bennet's Book of Madrigals for Four Voices Madrigalis to Foure voyces, which is dedicated to a Ralph Assheton. Assheton itself was the owner of an estate in Lancashire. Whether Bennet was employed by Assheton, remains the same presumption as everything else about his personal circumstances. It is believed, however, that he has resided in London and was in the service of the Church. Comes the last safe signs of life Bennet, six sacred vocal compositions, which were published in the anthology A brief discourse of Thomas Ravenscroft from the year 1614.

Bennet's body of work includes the aforementioned compositions and sacred works the madrigal All creatures now are merry minded, published in honor of Queen Elizabeth I in the anthology The Triumph of Oriana (1601 ) and the arrival of the Queen celebrates. It was published by Thomas Morley, through whose style Canzonettas the madrigal is characterized. As a composer who influenced Bennet's style, apply in addition to Thomas Morley, Thomas Weelkes, John Wilbye and John Dowland. Perhaps the most famous madrigal by Bennet Weep, O mine eyes, similar to the melody over long distances Dowland Flow my tears.