Shirley Rumsey

British Lutenist and Classical Guitarist

Shirley Rumsey is a musician and musicologist known for her expertise in early music, particularly from the Renaissance period. She is a skilled lutenist and guitarist, and also performs as a singer. Rumsey studied at the London College of Music, where she developed her proficiency in historical plucked string instruments. Alongside her solo career, she has been part of the ensemble Musica Antiqua of London and has collaborated with other early music specialists. Her work often involves the interpretation and performance of music from the 15th and 16th centuries, as evidenced by her recordings such as "Music Of The Spanish Renaissance" and "Music Of The Italian Renaissance." These albums showcase her ability to bring ancient music to contemporary audiences with historical accuracy and musical sensitivity. Shirley Rumsey's contributions to the field of early music have helped to revive interest in Renaissance music and have provided valuable insights into the performance practices of that era.