Personalities | William Boyce | Classical Era | Classical
1711–79
English composer
A Londoner, Boyce was a chorister at St Paul’s and a pupil of Maurice Greene (1696–1755) and J. C. Pepusch (1667–1752). He held posts as organist, notably at the Chapel Royal, and became Master of the King’s Musick in 1755. In that capacity he composed many court odes; he also wrote sacred music and stage works (his operas include The Chaplet, 1749, and The Shepherd’s Lottery, 1751; there is also a serenata, almost voluptuous in tone, on the Song of Solomon). His instrumental music includes fine trio sonatas and overtures. His sure technique and sturdy, tuneful tone are distinctive. Boyce was a keen musical antiquarian and produced an important edition of English Cathedral Music (1760–73).
Recommended Recording:
Symphonies, English Concert (dir) Trevor Pinnock (Archiv)
Introduction | Classical Era | Classical
Personalities | Charles Burney | Classical Era | Classical
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