4. Thomas Tomkins and the Earlier Seventeenth Century (1596–1646)

The most significant development for the cathedral in these years was the appointment of Thomas Tomkins as organist. He was to become one of the most distinguished composers of his generation, but at first his influence at Worcester was limited by his frequent absences in London. In the 1630s he reduced his London commitments and the music at Worcester improved. But by this time there was a popular move away from the Book of Common Prayer and a growing dislike of the choral services. Unfortunately, events in the country moved towards Civil War, and after a siege of the city in 1646, the Royalists and cathedral staff were expelled. Tomkins’ last years were bleak ones, and he must have believed that the prayer book services and his sacred music were lost for ever.