Edward Purcell (musician) facts for kids

Edward Purcell (1689–1740) was an English organist and composer. He was the only surviving son of the famous English Baroque master, Henry Purcell. Edward's father died in 1695 when Edward was just a small child.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Edward Purcell was born in Westminster, London, in 1689. His father, Henry Purcell, was a very well-known composer from the Baroque period. This was a time in music history roughly from 1600 to 1750.

After his father passed away, Edward's mother, Frances, made sure he received a good education. When she died in 1706, her will mentioned that she had given him a good education. She also left him musical instruments, including an organ and two spinnets. These were likely instruments his famous father had used.

Edward Purcell's Organist Career

Edward Purcell became an organist, just like his father. In late 1711, he started working as the organist at St Clement Eastcheap church in London. He kept this job for the rest of his life.

He tried to get another organist job at St Andrew's, Holborn church. This was a position his uncle, Daniel Purcell, had held. Edward tried twice, in 1718 and 1719, but he was not successful.

However, he did get another important job. On July 8, 1726, he became the organist at St. Margaret's, Westminster. He held this position at the same time as his job at St Clement Eastcheap.

Helping Other Musicians

In 1739, just one year before he died, Edward Purcell helped start a special group. This group was called the Society of Musicians. It was a benevolent society, which means it was set up to help musicians who were in need. Today, this society is known as the Royal Society of Musicians.

His Music and Legacy

Edward Purcell published two songs during his lifetime. Some old church songs, called psalm chants, were often thought to be by him. However, it seems they were actually written by an older person with the same name. This might have been his uncle Edward.

Edward Purcell was buried at St Clement Eastcheap church, near the organ gallery. His son, Edward Henry Purcell, took over his job as organist there after his death in 1740.