Edward Henry Purcell facts for kids

Edward Henry Purcell was an organist who lived a long time ago and passed away in 1765. He came from a very musical family! His father, also named Edward Purcell, was a musician, and his grandfather was the famous English composer Henry Purcell, known for his amazing Baroque music.

Edward Henry started his musical journey early. In 1737, he was a chorister, which means he sang in the choir, at the Chapel Royal. This was a special place for royal music. When his father died in 1740, Edward Henry took over his job as the organist at St Clement, Eastcheap church.

Edward Henry Purcell's Musical Career

Edward Henry Purcell was a busy organist, playing at several churches during his life.

Organist at Multiple Churches

Besides his main job at St Clement, Eastcheap, he also played the organ at other places. From 1747 to 1753, he was the organist at St Edmund, King and Martyr. After that, he became the organist at St John, Hackney. He kept his job at St Clement's church the whole time.

Challenges at Hackney

While working at St John, Hackney, Edward Henry faced some challenges. He was told off for not being serious enough and for not always showing up on time.

Possible Printing Business

It's thought that Edward Henry Purcell might also have been a printer. In 1751, a printer named Purcell was publishing music from a shop called "Handel's Head" on Wood Street. This could have been Edward Henry.

Financial Difficulties

Towards the end of his life, Edward Henry Purcell faced some tough financial times.

Facing Money Troubles

It seems he was struggling with money. In 1761, a public notice in the London Gazette mentioned that he was having trouble paying his debts. This shows he was going through a very difficult period financially.

Burial Place

Edward Henry Purcell was buried next to his father. Their graves are near the organ gallery in St Clement Eastcheap church, where he had worked for many years.