William Byrd was the leading composer of the late sixteenth to early seventeenth century. With over 470 compositions, he is recognized as one of the most esteemed European Renaissance composers in history. Byrd is known as the master of the consort viols genre and a pioneering imitative counterpoint in his works. Best known for his works both sacred and secular, with the two receiving high praise. Despite the backlash against Catholicism in Anglican England, he provided for the Catholic community with vocal polyphonic compositions throughout his career, illustrating his religious advocacy.