William Byrd (1543-1623), Organist of Lincoln Cathedral and Gentleman of the Chapel Royal, is arguably the most significant English church musician of his day. The quality of his vocal music is second to none, and as significant is his establishment of a truly English style of instrumental writing. Perhaps it is for these reasons that his Roman Catholicism was at least partially tolerated, although he and his wife were not without their share of trouble from the authorities. Many of the fine Latin-texted works he composed were for the private, illegal services, at which Byrd was often present. The Mass for four voices is beautifully crafted, using the polyphonic techniques favoured by continental composers combined with a particularly expressive approach to the text.

Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958), O taste and see

This beautiful anthem was composed in 1953 for the coronation of Elizabeth II.  Typically for Vaughan Williams, a simple, folk-like melody is harmonised with smooth, flowing lines.

Hildegard of Bingen (c. 1098–1179), O eterne Deus

As well as a being a composer, Hildegard was renowned in her life as a philosopher, mystic, writer, and even medical practitioner.  She spent most of her life as a nun attached to the abbey of Disibodenberg, in what is now south-west Germany.  There are more surviving plainsong chants by Hildegard than by any other medieval composer, and their haunting beauty makes them especially powerful and moving.