Pevernage, Andreas

1543-1591

This contrapuntist ancf composer of sacred music was born at Courtrai, Flanders, where he was chapelmaster until 1574. A few years later he removed to Antwerp to become chapelmaster, or choirmaster, at Notre Dame Cathedral, a position which he held until his death. He was one of the first, if not the first, to give private recitals, introducing the works of the best composers of the Netherlands and foreign countries. He composed and edited much sacred musit, some of it being published after his death, which occurred, according to some authorities, in 1589, but 1591 is a more authentic date. His works comprise five books of chansons; a book of motets; a collection of madrigals; and masses. A gloria in Excelsis; and O virgo generosa, a hymn to St. Cecilia, written for his opening concert, have been printed in modern type.