Ayrton, Edmund

1734-1808

English organist and director, for many years master of the children at the Chapel Royal, London, and author of some music. He was born at Ripon, studied the organ under Dr. Nares, organist at York Minster, and in 1754 was elected organist and to other posts at the college and church of Southwell. He was vicar-choral of St. Paul's, lay-clerk of Westminster, and in 1780 began service as master of the children, which post he occupied tilt 1805. The University of Cambridge conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Music in 1784. The anthem he wrote for this degree was given at St. Paul's Cathedral in the celebration of Thanksgiving over the conclusion of war with America.