Lot 2135
LENTON, JOHN. A manuscript volume titled 'Instrumental Musick For New years day 1703... Composed by Jo:n Lenton', First Treble Part only. In the hand of the same scribe throughout, the final sheet signed 'J.L.' suggesting this manuscript may be autograph. The dedication reads 'To The Queens Most Excellent Maj tie The Author Humbly dedicates'. The music comprises eleven movements, either numbered or titled, or both; [1] Overture, (2), (3) Slow, (4) Bass: Minuett, (5), (6) Minuett, (7), (8), (9), (10) Scotch Air, (11).
Four staves per page, 2pp. blank, 4pp. title and dedication, 12pp. music, 2pp. blank, marbled endpapers, contemporary polished morocco, tooled elaborately gilt, titled on upper cover 'LENTON NEW YEAR 1703', all edges gilt, spine broken, 101mm x 195mm
John Lenton (1657-1719) was an English composer, violinist and singer. In 1681 he was appointed to King Charles' troupe of violinists, part of the musicians of the Royal Court known collectively as the King's Musick. Lenton played at the coronations of James II, William III, and Mary II and also contributed to the royal repertoire, composing suites to celebrate William II's return to London around 1697, and for the New Year of 1699. There is manuscript for this latter work now in the British Library (MS 71544) which closely resembles the lots offered here.
