Samuel Sebastian Wesley

Samuel Sebastian Wesley (14 August 1810 — 19 April 1876) was an English organist and composer.

He was born in London, the son of the composer Samuel Wesley and his partner Sarah Suter, and grandson of Charles Wesley. After singing in the choir of the Chapel Royal as a boy, he embarked on a career as a musician, becoming organist of Hereford Cathedral in 1832. He moved to Exeter Cathedral three years later, and subsequently held appointments at Leeds Parish Church , Winchester Cathedral and Gloucester Cathedral. Famous as an organist in his day, he composed almost exclusively for the Church of England. His anthems include Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, Blessed be the God and Father and Ascribe unto the Lord; some are of considerable length and elaboration, as is his Service in E major.

References

• 'Samuel Sebastian Wesley', Grove Music Online ed. L. Macy (Accessed 1 October 2004) http://www.grovemusic.com