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Henry Purcell was an English Baroque composer, organist, and singer, widely regarded as one of the greatest English composers of all time.Born into a musical family in London around 1659, Purcell became a chorister in the Chapel Royal at age 10. He served as organist at Westminster Abbey from 1679 until his death and held positions at the Chapel Royal and court of three monarchs. His output includes sacred music, secular songs, instrumental works, and pioneering English operas like 'Dido and Aeneas'.

• Purcell died under mysterious circumstances at 36. While tuberculosis is commonly cited, a controversial account claims he died after being locked out by his wife following a late-night tavern visit, leading to fatal exposure.
• His funeral at Westminster Abbey featured his own composition 'Thou Knowest, Lord, the Secrets of Our Hearts' performed by the choir he once led.
• Purcell's nickname 'Orpheus Britannicus' (British Orpheus) appeared in posthumous collections, cementing his legendary status in English musical history.
• He composed music for the coronations of James II (1685) and William III & Mary II (1689), demonstrating his indispensable role in royal ceremonies.