Charles John Frederick Lampe facts for kids

Charles John Frederick Lampe (born 1739 – died 1767) was an English composer and organist. He was the son of a famous composer, John Frederick Lampe, and a well-known singer, Isabella Lampe.

Who Was Charles Lampe?

Charles Lampe was born in London in 1739. His parents were both very talented musicians. His father, John Frederick Lampe, wrote music for plays and operas. His mother, Isabella Lampe, was a popular singer known as a soprano. She often sang in her husband's shows.

A Family of Musicians

Charles came from a big family of musicians called the Young family. His grandfather, Charles Young, was a respected organist and composer. His great-uncle, Anthony Young, was also a skilled organist and composer.

Charles's Aunt Cecilia was one of the best English sopranos of her time. She was married to the famous composer Thomas Arne. His Aunt Esther was a well-known singer called a contralto. Many of his cousins were also successful singers and composers.

Charles's Musical Career

In 1758, Charles Lampe became the organist at All Hallows, Barking-by-the-Tower church. He held this job until he passed away in 1767. From 1760 to 1761, he played in the Covent Garden orchestra.

In 1763, Charles married Ann Smith, who was also a singer. She often performed at the Marylebone Gardens, which were popular places for entertainment in London. Charles and Ann lived in the Drury Lane area. Charles Lampe died in 1767 when he was only 28 years old.

As a composer, Charles mostly wrote songs for London's pleasure gardens. These were public parks where people went to relax and enjoy music. He also wrote short, fun songs called catches and glees.

What Music Did Charles Lampe Write?

Charles Lampe wrote several songs. One was a patriotic song called Britannia's Invitation to her Sons, to Partake of the Glory of the Intended Expedition (around 1755). He also wrote Damon & Delia or the Retreat (1759).

In 1764, he released a collection of songs called Six English Songs as Sung by Mr [Thomas] Lowe & Mrs Lampe Junr at Mary-bone Gardens. His music was usually light and enjoyable. He often used a musical rhythm called a "Scotch snap," which is a short, quick note followed by a longer one.

Charles also had some of his catches published in collections. These included The Catch Club or Merry Companions … Selected by C.I.F. Lampe (around 1765) and A Second Collection of Catches.