During the 16th and 17th Centuries, lutenists were invariably included as part of the musical retinue of Kings, Queens, and Princes. At least one lutenist was also included in households of nobles and landed gentry. These were the "musicians in residence," so to speak. Professional lutenists were a feature of the courts, and their talents were handsomely rewarded. Though England produced only a small amount of printed lute music, it is extremely fortunate that many manuscript books of famous lutenists were ...
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