Linley, Francis

1771-1800

English organist and composer; born at Done aster. Though blind from his birth he received a good education, studying under Dr. Miller. He became organist of St. James' Chapel, Pentonville. He married about this time and his wife was blind also. Their marriage was not a happy one and they soon separated. He had bought the business of Bland, musicseller in Holborn, in 1796, but his venture was unsuccessful and he left for America the same year. He remained there until 1799, playing successfully. Returning to England he died at Doncaster the next year. Among his compositions are songs, piano and organ-pieces, flute solos and duets, and an Organ Tutor.