Croft, William

1677-1727

Born at Nether Eatington, England. He was educated at the Chapel Royal under Dr. Blow and became at an early age proficient in musical composition and an organist of ability. When he was thirty years of age he attained to the position of organist at Westminster Abbey, master of the children, and composer of the Chapel Royal. Nine years later he received from Oxford the degree of Doctor of Music. While composer to Queen Anne he wrote many hymns, anthems and songs to celebrate the victories of Marlborough at Blenheim. Several of these songs are still heard in English cathedrals. In the early part of his career he composed for the theatre and wrote overtures and also sonatas for both violin and flute. He is noted for his sacred compositions. In 1724 he published his choral works in two volumes. He was one of the original members of the Academy of Vocal Music founded in 1725. He is said to have died from his too-zealous application to his duties in connection with the coronation of George II. He is buried in Westminster Abbey, where a monument is erected to his memory.