Composing Wills: Legacies of Early Modern Musicians

The National Archives’ collection of Prerogative Court of Canterbury wills and associated probate records offer a rich picture of society in England and Wales over a period of about 500 years.

Ruth Selman, Principal Early Modern Records Specialist, will explore the wills left by musical luminaries including Henry Purcell and George Frideric Handel, between the 16th and 18th centuries. The changing styles of will-making across the period will be highlighted with fascinating examples and an accompanying document display will provide an opportunity to view Handel’s original will and other probate documents.

Doors will open 15 mins before the advertised start time. The talk is expected to last 1 hour (including a Q&A), followed by a document display.