Christopher Tye

16th-Century English Composer and Organist

Christopher Tye was an English composer and organist, born around 1505 and active in the mid-16th century during the reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, and possibly into the reign of Elizabeth I. He is known for his significant contributions to both church music and instrumental consort music. Tye was a leading figure in the development of English choral music, composing within the liturgical framework of the Anglican Church. His works include Latin masses, English anthems, and settings of the Acts of the Apostles. He also wrote instrumental consort music, which was innovative for its time and showed a mastery of form and expression.