William Duncombe (composer) facts for kids
William Duncombe (born around 1736-1738, died November 30, 1818 or 1819) was an English composer. He worked as an organist in Kensington, a town in England.
Duncombe is mostly known for a few short piano pieces. These include a Sonatina in C Major and a piece called the Fanfare or Fanfare Minuet. These pieces are still used today in music books for students learning to play instruments.
These popular pieces probably came from his larger work, Progressive lessons for the harpsichord and piano forte. This collection was published around 1778 or 1785. A harpsichord and a piano forte are older types of keyboard instruments, similar to the modern piano.
Sometimes, William Duncombe the composer is confused with another person named William Duncombe, who was a writer (1690 – 1769). They lived at different times.
What Music Did He Write?
William Duncombe wrote several musical pieces. Many of them were for people learning to play instruments.
- He published two books of Progressive Lessons for the Harpsichord and Piano Forte in 1778. These books helped students learn how to play these instruments step by step.
- He also wrote a special version of the song "God Save the King." This version was arranged for two people to play together on one piano forte or harpsichord. It was published around 1792.
- In 1793, he composed a hymn for charity children in Kensington. This hymn was sung at their church after a special sermon.
- Another piece he wrote was called What tho' the sun withdraws his ray, published around 1760.
