John Banister

Banister was a violinist, composer and flageolet player for the English court. Much of his life was astir with accusations and innuendo. Nevertheless, he was able to remain in the King's service until his death and a great demand was laid upon him for his "play" songs. He composed songs for "The Slighted Maid" of Stapylton, "The Tempest" production by Davenant-Dryden and Sedley's "The Mulberry Garden." His instrumental music, however, far outweighed the import of these vocal works. ~ Keith Johnson