Antonio de Cabezón had much of his musical training in Palencia, where his uncle was vicar-general of the diocese. He became organist in the chapel of Queen Isabella in 1526, later serving Philip II, before and after his accession to the throne, accompanying the king on journeys abroad, including that involved in the king’s marriage to Queen Mary of England. He was among the leading keyboard players of his day. His three sons and two daughters also served the royal family, two of the former as organists and composers.

Keyboard Music

Antonio de Cabezón was distinguished as an organist and clavichord player. His music for keyboard consists of 29 Tientos, pieces varied in technique and mood, Diferencias, sets of variations on secular tunes, Versillos, harmonized versions of the eight psalm tones, and Magnificats, as well as Glosas, compositions based on polyphonic works by other composers.