[Crux fidelis, inter omnes]

Composer: John IV

João IV, also known as John the Restorer, was King of Portugal from 1640 until his death in 1656. He promoted the church music of Palestrina, and wrote Defensa de la musica moderna in 1649. He also accumulated an impressive library of music, which was unfortunately lost in the earthquake and fires in Lisbon in 1755. A handful of his compositions survive, but the popular "Crux fidelis" attributed to him is probably an anonymous composition from the 19th century. Buja, Maureen. "King and Composer: João IV of Portugal," Interlude. https://interlude.hk/king-and-composer-joao-iv-of-portugal/ Go to person page >