Peter Lupo

Peter Lupo was a renowned Italian viol player and composer who spent a significant portion of his career at the court of Elizabeth I of England. Born in 1535 in Venice to Ambrose Lupo and his first wife Lucia, Lupo's early life was marked by a strong musical influence, with his father having served in the royal viol consort since 1540. Alongside his brother Joseph, Peter initially traveled to Antwerp, where he joined the musicians' guild in 1557 and started a family with his first wife Katherine Wicke.

Lupo's musical career spanned over 40 years, during which he succeeded Albert of Venice as a court musician in 1567. He went on to become a respected figure in the English court, playing at significant events, including the funeral of Queen Elizabeth in 1603. His legacy extended beyond his own accomplishments, as his nephew Thomas Lupo the elder and son Thomas Lupo the younger also pursued careers as court musicians. Additionally, his son Philip founded the American branch of the Lupo family, and among his descendants in the United States was the notable Sacred Harp composer Sarah Lancaster. Peter Lupo passed away in 1608, leaving behind a lasting impact on the world of music.