Porter, Walter (c. 1588–1659)

English composer. He became a Gentleman of the Chapel Royal in London in 1617. At some time, probably earlier, he was a pupil of the Italian composer Monteverdi. In 1639, he became choirmaster at Westminster Abbey and when the choral service was suppressed in 1644, he came under the patronage of Sir Edward Spencer.

Works Vocal motets for two voices and instruments; psalms (George Sandys' paraphrases) for two voices and organ; madrigals and airs for voices and instruments (published 1632).