Tylman Susato (1515-1571)

Tylman Susato, a German musician and composer was also a printer. He got his start as a calligrapher in 1529 at the Confraternity of our Lady located in Antwerp. He also added trumpeter to his list of duties at Antwerp in 1531. Apparently, Susato also played other instruments including the sackbut (precursor to the trombone) and recorder.

He went into the printing business in the 1540s and is credited with starting and establishing the first large publishing house. He was granted the privilege to print music in 1543. One of his most famous published books was one of his own, a two volume set of 50 cantus firmus chansons (French songs with a Gregorian chant as the foundation). Susato was also well known for his chamber music.