A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Causton, Thomas

by William H. Husk

CAUSTON, Thomas, was a gentleman of the Chapel Royal in the reigns of Edward VI, Mary, and Elizabeth. He contributed to the curious collection published by John Day, the eminent printer, in 1560, in separate parts, under the title of 'Certain Notes, set forth in four and three parts, to be sung at the Morning, Communion, and Evening Prayer'; he was also a contributor to the collection of psalm tunes published by Day in 1563 under the title of 'The whole Psalmes in foure parts, which may be sung to all musical instruments.' Some of his compositions are still extant. 'They are remarkable for purity of part writing and flowing melody, closely resembling the style of Orlando Gibbons, the great church composer of a later period.' Causton died Oct. 28, 1569. A 'Venite exultemus,' and a Communion service by him were reprinted by the Rev. Dr. Jebb some years since.

[ W. H. H. ]