Wise, Michael (c. 1647–1687)

English organist and composer. He held various organist's and choirmaster's positions in London, Windsor, and Salisbury, and wrote church music, especially anthems with fine parts for treble voices.

Wise was a choirboy at the Chapel Royal in London in 1660. In 1663 he became a lay-clerk at St George's Chapel, Windsor, and in 1668 organist and choirmaster of Salisbury Cathedral. He was appointed a Gentleman of the Chapel Royal in 1676, but retained his post at Salisbury until 1685. At the time of the coronation of James II he was suspended from the Chapel Royal, probably because of characteristically difficult conduct. In 1687 he became almoner and choirmaster at St Paul's Cathedral in London, but continued to visit Salisbury, where his wife had remained. After a dispute with her at night he left the house and was killed in a quarrel with a watchman.

Works Choral services and anthems (including The Ways of Zion Mourn).

Other songs and catches.