Mary Dering

Full biography Mary Dering

Mary Dering was a 17th-century English composer and musician who lived in the mid-1600s. She was born into a family of musicians and composers, which included her father Henry and her brother Richard. Mary and her family were prominent figures in London’s music scene during the Restoration period, and her music was highly regarded by the contemporaries of her time.

Dering's compositions are unique in their style, blending traditional English music with Italian influences, which she acquired during her travels abroad. Her music often featured harpsichords and vocal arrangements, and she was highly skilled in creating complex polyphonic harmonies. One of her most famous works is the composition "Awake, Awake My Lyre," which has been performed and recorded by many modern artists.

Despite her popularity during her lifetime, Dering's music was largely forgotten over time, and many of her manuscripts have been lost. However, her legacy could still be seen through the influence her compositions had on later musicians. Her music has been the subject of revival and reinvention efforts in recent years by scholars and musicians alike, helping to bring her legacy back to life.

In addition to her musical achievements, Dering was also remembered for her religious beliefs and her dedication to the church. Much of her music was tied to Christian themes and was often performed in church settings. Mary Dering is a proud example of a talented and passionate female composer of the 17th century, who left behind a musical legacy that still resonates today.