William Byrd (1540-1623) is undoubtedly one of the world's great composers, yet this is the first study for sixty years to deal comprehensively with his life and works. The book begins with an authoritative biographical account, incorporating much newly discovered material. Byrd's year of birth, and his family's origins and occupations (ranging from musical instrument-making to money lending), are established for the first time.

The second part of the book examines Byrd's development as a composer, and the nature of his achievement. It draws on a wide range of up to date information, and pays particular attention to the chronology of his works. There are many music examples, and nine pages of plates.

This thoroughly researched book is completed by a series of appendices, among which is a sixteenth-century genealogy of the Byrd family, and a group of wills that include Byrd and some of his relations. A full catalogue of Byrd's works, a bibliography and indexes round off a volume which is indispensable, both to historians and to everyone with an interest in early music and the England of Elizabeth I and James I.