About Benjamin Cosyn
Lived 1580 – 1653 (aged 72–73). Benjamin Cosyn was an English organist and composer.
Benjamin Cosyn (also Cosens, Cousins or Cowsins; c.1580 - c. 14 September 1653) was an English composer, organist and virginalist. He was organist of St Laurence's Church, Ludlow (1621 to 1622), Dulwich College (1622 to 1624) and Charterhouse School (1626 to 1643).
He is best known compiling two valuable manuscripts of Tudor and Stuart-era music. The "Cosyn Virginal Book" (British Library R.M.23.L.4) dated 1620, collects keyboard music by Thomas Tallis, William Byrd, John Bull and Orlando Gibbons, as well as his own compositions. A 1652 manuscript "for the kings Royall chappell" (Bibliothèque nationale de France Rés.1185) collects 35 pieces by contemporary composers and 15 of his own.
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Important facts
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Benjamin Cosyn?
English organist and composer, c.1580–1653
When was Benjamin Cosyn born?
Benjamin Cosyn was born in 1580.
When did Benjamin Cosyn die?
Benjamin Cosyn died in 1653.
What was Benjamin Cosyn's occupation?
Benjamin Cosyn was an organist and composer.
What nationality was Benjamin Cosyn?
Benjamin Cosyn was English.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Benjamin Cosyn. https://biography.guide/benjamin-cosyn/
MLA: "Benjamin Cosyn." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/benjamin-cosyn/.
Chicago: "Benjamin Cosyn." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/benjamin-cosyn/.
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