Simon, Jean Henri

1783-1861

Belgian violinist and composer; born at Antwerp, and at eight years of age is said to have conducted a mass with orchestra. He studied music with Lahoussaye, Rode, Gossec and Catel in Paris, then returned to his native town to become a teacher of violin and a performer on that instrument. Simon taught, among others, Meerts, Janssens and Vieuxtemps. He composed seven violin concertos, and other works for that instrument; several oratorios; cantatas; choruses; motets and a trio for two violins and bass.