Juan de Anchieta

Juan de Anchieta was a composer who also had the occasion to sing in Queen Isabella's court. This afforded him the opportunity to sing with La Rue, Agricola, and de Orto. Some of his compositions were praised by Francisco de Salinas and even later, Cervantes. Extant is his "En Memoria d'Alixandre," and the most popular "Dos anades." Anchieta's music was both fluid and pleasant to the ear. His chordal progressions were simple, built on roots and occasional but rare thirds. Sacred works include "Missa Rex virginum," and a "Magnificat" in three parts. [Interestingly, Iganatius Loyola was Anchieta's cousin.] ~ Keith Johnson