The Spanish composer, poet and dramatist Juan del Enzina was born in Salamanca, joining the cathedral choir in 1484. In 1492 he joined the household of the second Duke of Alba, for whom he provided entertainments. Failing to gain a paid position in the cathedral choir, he moved to Rome, where he served Pope Alexander VI and then Pope Julius II, receiving from both benefices in Spain and dividing his time between his native country and the papal court. In 1519 he was ordained priest, to be appointed by Pope Leo X as prior of León Cathedral. He remained in León from 1521 until his death.

Vocal Music

Enzina’s plays, eclogues and other poems, with his music, date largely from his earlier years. The plays, which included a musical element, consist of dramas on religious subjects and then love tragedies, setting a precedent for future Spanish drama. His compositions consist largely of the popular Spanish refrain songs known as villancicos. Much of his music was included in the Cancionero Musical de Palacio, assembled at the Spanish court.