In August 1350, a striking scene unfolded in several Sussex towns: off the coast near Winchelsea lay the English fleet assembled by King Edward III to challenge the Spanish. The galleons bobbed on the waves in the warm summer breeze, while Edward stood proudly at the prow of his ship, sporting an elegant beaver-skin hat. Nearby were the Knights of the Garter, whose headquarters was Windsor—a place steeped in the legend of King Arthur. Bathed in sunshine and shimmering sea, Edward strode across the deck in high spirits. He requested music and asked his minstrels to perform the "German Dance," introduced by Sir John Chandos. He also asked Chandos to sing the song, much to the king's amusement.
... But it wasn't just Edward and Chandos; other members of the Order of the Garter, such as Henry of Lancaster, also appreciated music and enjoyed singing their own songs, like "Meynt Chanceon Amerouse." Music at English aristocratic courts, however, was shrouded in secrecy, like a hidden chamber. Musicians accompanied festive occasions with trumpets, such as banquets or when the lord of the house retired to his private chambers. Because these pieces were not written down, they were lost along with their performers.
Nevertheless, some outstanding compositions have survived that can be associated with English kings and lords. Works like "Singularis Laudis Digna" were created in the context of the Hundred Years' War and praised the English rulers and their campaigns in France. The "Agincourt Carol" is another famous example. Around 1400, the Knights of the Garter enjoyed sophisticated polyphony at Mass, as their financial resources allowed them to bring high-quality music to their courts.
Exquisite works were created for these nobles, and the renowned Old Hall Manuscript in the British Library documents the achievements of important composers such as Pycard and Leonel Power. French compositions by Philippe de Vitry also found their way to England.
Some French pieces are associated with King John II of France, who was imprisoned in London's Savoy Palace. A didactic poem praises Edward III for his musical abilities and highlights the motets of Philippe de Vitry, which were likely performed in England. These works demonstrate a sophisticated polyphonic musical tradition that was also cultivated at the Savoy Palace. Additionally, some French pieces are associated with Henry V, who performed French songs with his wife, Catherine of Valois. Polyphonic chansons were probably also among the favorite pieces of aristocratic harpists.
Christmas carols such as "Lullay, Lullay" accompanied courtly festivities, while "There is no rose of swych virtu" was dedicated to the Duke of Clarence. The music composed for the Knights of the Garter reflects the rich style of English music. Vocal and instrumental works from England are distinguished by their unique characteristics and differ significantly from the musical traditions of the rest of Europe.