John Ashley (musician) facts for kids
John Ashley (born around 1734 – died 1805) was an English musician. He was the father of a very talented family of musicians who were active in the late 1700s.
John Ashley's Life
John Ashley became a member of the Royal Society of Musicians on 7 April 1765. This was a group that supported musicians and their families.
In 1784, John Ashley helped lead a special event celebrating the famous composer George Frideric Handel. He was the assistant conductor to Joah Bates. At this same event, a "Mr. Ashley of the Guards" played the double bassoon. People sometimes thought this was John Ashley himself. However, it was more likely another family member, possibly his brother Jane, who was born in 1740 and passed away in 1809.
Leading Concerts
In 1795, John Ashley took charge of the oratorio concerts at Covent Garden. Oratorios are like musical stories, often based on religious themes, performed without costumes or staging.
John Ashley also served as the Master of the Worshipful Company of Musicians in 1804. This was a special year because it was the 200th anniversary of this important group for musicians.
John Ashley passed away on 2 March 1805, in Abingdon Street, Westminster. His wife also died there on 22 December 1809, at the age of 75.
John Ashley's Family
John Ashley had a son named Richard Ashley (1775 – 1836). Richard played the violin, but he wasn't as well-known as a musician. He joined the Royal Society of Musicians on 17 April 1796. Richard Ashley passed away in October 1836. He was the father of Charles Jane Ashley, General Charles Ashley, and John James Ashley.
