Canonical composers (early period)
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William Byrd (1540-1623)
One of the three greats of Renaissance music. See also Religion and Christianity
Jane Mary Guest (1762-1846)
The earliest published female composer I can find, and teacher of royalty. See also Classical forms
George Frederick Handel (1685-1759)
German, but spent most of his life in England. The Messiah. See also Pageantry and Patriotism
Henry Purcell (1659-1695)
The first English superstar composer. See also Storytelling