Abell, John

About 1660-after 1716

Famous alto singer and lute player. Began his musical education in the choir of the Chapel Royal and was later sent by Charles II. to study in Italy. Returned to England in 1683. He was dismissed from the choir of the Chapel Royal in 1688, and after traveling on the Continent for a number of years, during which time he supported himself by his voice and lute, he returned and settled at Cambridge in 1700. He published a collection of songs in several languages in 1701, dedicated to William III. and a collection of songs in English, also in 1701.