Two works by Purcell discovered in council archives

He was the leading English composer of the 17th century, writing masterpieces such as Dido and Aeneas and The Fairy Queen. Now - thanks to musicologists - fans have two new works to admire by Henry Purcell, whose life was cut short in 1695 at the age of 36.

- Dalya Alberge

The experts have discovered the printed score of a previously unknown Purcell song, as well as the original manuscript for various keyboard compositions.

Partly in the composer’s hand, the manuscript is the first by Purcell to be found in more than 30 years.

The works were unearthed in local authority archives in Worcestershire and Norfolk, among routine administrative documents.

Stephen Rose, a professor of music at Royal Holloway, University of London, said: “Both discoveries show the crucial role of county council archives and their staff in preserving this musical heritage. Both give important insights into the music Purcell was writing in the last five years of his short life.”