Hidden Henry - Henry the Musician

Five academics present portraits of unknown, intimate and surprising aspects of Henry VIII's character. Dr Stephen Rice, who researches and plays little-known Renaissance music, investigates Henry VIII's musical abilities. Did he really compose Greensleeves and other pieces which have been attributed to him? He was certainly a patron of music, appreciating visits from foreign musicians and expanding the royal musical household. Dr Rice introduces music from the period, recently recorded by the Brabant Ensemble. He is joined by Elizabeth Kenny, one of the UK's leading lutenists, and together they demonstrate how the repertoire reflected Henry's personal concerns, his political outlook, his religious convictions and his practical abilities as a musician and composer.