Frye was apparently an English composer either active or well-known on the Continent. His music, all vocal, makes large use of the mellow "countenance" of passing thirds characteristic of English music from the early fifteenth century. Between the work of Frye and John Dunstable (c.1380-1453), this English descant style had an influence on the development of continental music which had not been seen before and was hardly to be seen since. Frye's motet "Ave Regina" was one of the most widely circulated fifteenth century compositions, with sources in several countries as well as appearances in at least three paintings of the period. ~ Todd McComb (6/94)