Rodrigo de Ceballos

Full biography Rodrigo de Ceballos

Rodrigo de Ceballos was a Spanish composer born in the early 16th century. He is known for his contributions to the Spanish Renaissance music scene, particularly during the reign of King Phillip II in the latter half of the 16th century.

Ceballos was a pupil of Francisco Guerrero, another prominent Spanish composer of the time, and under his tutelage, he developed his signature style that incorporated both polyphonic forms and uses of harmonies. His choral compositions were characterized by rich melodies and tight harmonies, which were often sung in Latin.

Ceballos' most significant work is his Missa de Beata Virgine, which is a mass setting that uses the Gregorian chant as a basis for its composition. This work is often regarded as one of the most outstanding compositions of the Spanish Renaissance music period.

Ceballos was known to have worked at the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, where he held the position of maestro de capilla. During his tenure at the monastery, he became recognized as one of the most prominent musical talents of the Spanish Renaissance.

Despite his significant contributions to music, Ceballos' work remains relatively unknown compared to his contemporaries, such as Francisco Guerrero or Tomás Luis de Victoria. Nevertheless, his compositions remain an essential part of the Spanish Renaissance musical heritage.