Henry Cooke (composer)

Henry Cooke (c. 1616 – 1672) was an English composer, singer, actor, and choirmaster, associated with the Chapel Royal. He is considered a significant figure in the development of English music after the Commonwealth period.

Cooke's early life is somewhat obscure, but he is believed to have been a choirboy in the Chapel Royal under Charles I. During the English Civil War, he served in the Royalist army, achieving the rank of captain.

Following the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Cooke was appointed Master of the Children of the Chapel Royal. This position gave him considerable influence over the training of young musicians, and he is credited with mentoring many notable composers and performers of the next generation, including Pelham Humfrey, John Blow, Michael Wise, and Henry Purcell. Purcell may have become a chorister under Cooke as early as 1660, though some debate remains about this.

As Master of the Children, Cooke was responsible for providing music for royal occasions and training choristers for the Chapel Royal. He was also involved in the production of masques and operas at court.

Cooke's compositions include anthems, services, and songs. While not all of his works survive, those that do reveal a composer of considerable skill, blending older English traditions with newer continental influences. He is recognized for his dramatic and expressive style, particularly in his anthems. He is also known for commissioning new instruments for the Chapel Royal orchestra.

Cooke died in 1672 and was succeeded as Master of the Children by Pelham Humfrey. His legacy lies primarily in his role as a teacher and mentor to the next generation of English musicians, contributing significantly to the flourishing of English music during the Restoration period.