Michael East (composer)

Michael East (c. 1580 – 1648) was an English organist and composer of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. He is primarily known for his vocal music, particularly his madrigals and anthems.

Life details concerning East are relatively sparse. It is believed he was born around 1580. He served as the organist and master of choristers at Lichfield Cathedral from 1618 until his death in 1648.

East published six sets of vocal music: four sets of madrigals (1604, 1606, 1618, 1624), one set of anthems (1618) and one set of music for viols and voices (1638) which he titled "The Sixth Set". His compositions show a development from the lighter Italianate style of early English madrigals toward a more serious and contrapuntal style. Several of his madrigals have become well-known and are still performed today. His anthem collection, "Second Set of Madrigals, apt for Viols and Voices," showcases his versatility and skill in both vocal and instrumental writing. East was one of the last significant composers in the English madrigal tradition. His death marked the end of a chapter in English musical history, as musical tastes shifted after the English Civil War.