A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Damascene, Alexander

DAMASCENE, Alexander, a foreigner, of probably Italian extraction, but French birth, who, on June 26 [App. p.605 "July 22"], 1682, obtained letters of denization in England, was an alto singer. On August 30, 91 [App. p.605 "Dec. 6, 1690"], Damascene was sworn in as a gentleman extraordinary of the Chapel Royal, and on the death of Henry Purcell in 95 was advanced to a full place. He died July 14, 1719. Damascene was a prolific song writer, and many of his compositions may be found in the following collections, viz. 'Choice Ayres and Songs,' 1676–84; 'The Theatre of Musick,' 1685–87; ' Vinculum Societatis,' 1687–91; 'The Banquet of Musick,' 1688–92; 'Comes Amoris,' 1687–94; 'The Gentleman's Journal,' 1692–94.

[ W. H. H. ]