A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Lutenist

LUTENIST, a lute-player. In the 16th and 17th centuries lutenists, or, as they were sometimes called, 'lewters' or 'luters,' invariably formed part of the musical retinue of kings and princes, and one at least was commonly attached to the households of nobles and landed gentry. On Aug. 8, 1715, a lutenist's place was created in the Chapel Royal of St. James's, and John Shore was appointed to it, who held it until his death in 1752, when it was given to John Immyns, who filled it until his death in 1764. The office afterwards became a sinecure, and was eventually annexed to the Mastership of the Children as a means of increasing the stipend. It continued until the death of William Hawes in 1846, when it was abolished.

[ W. H. H. ]