A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Bryne, Albertus

BRYNE, Albertus, organist, born about 1621, received his musical education from John Tomkins, organist of St. Paul's. It was probably on the death of his master that Bryne obtained the same post, which he held until the Commonwealth. At the Restoration he was re-appointed, a petition having been presented to the King on his behalf. After the great fire he became organist of Westminster, a post which he probably retained until the appointment of Blow in 1669. He is said to have died in that year, but there is evidence to prove that he was organist and fourth fellow of Dulwich College from 1671 to 1677. A 'Mr. Bryan' who was appointed organist of Allhallows' Barking in 1676, with a salary of £18 per annum, may very possibly have been the same person. In 'The Virgin's Pattern' (Life of Susanna Perwick), 1661, among the famous musicians of the time, mention is made of 'Albertus Bryne, that famous velvet-fingered organist.' A Morning and Evening Service by him are in many collections, and he wrote besides many sets of words for anthems, as well as dances, 'grounds,' etc. His name is variously spelt Bryan, Brian, and as above. (Dict. of Nat. Biog., etc.)

[ W. B. S. ]