William Felton (composer) facts for kids

William Felton was an English composer who lived from 1715 to 1769. He studied at St. John's College, Cambridge and later became a chaplain to the Princess of Wales. He was known for writing concertos, which are pieces of music for a solo instrument and an orchestra. His concertos were similar to those written by the famous composer Handel. Felton also composed a popular song called "Fill, fill, fill the glass."

Early Life and Education

William Felton was born in Market Drayton, a town in Shropshire, England. He received his education in Manchester before attending St. John's, Cambridge University. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1738. Later, in 1745, he completed his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree.

Musical Career and Works

Felton was a talented musician and composer. In 1741, he joined the choir at Hereford Cathedral as a vicar-choral, which meant he was a priest who also sang in the choir. He later became a chaplain to the Princess of Wales, Augusta of Saxe-Gotha.

During Felton's time, it was hard for musicians who played the harpsichord to find good music. The harpsichord is an old musical instrument similar to a piano. Felton wrote many pieces for the harpsichord and organ. His music, including three sets of six concertos and eight sets of easy lessons, became very popular. Many new players enjoyed learning and performing his compositions.

One of Felton's most famous pieces was a dance tune called a gavotte. This gavotte became incredibly popular. It was even included in an opera by Vincenzo Legrenzio Ciampi in 1754.

Felton and Handel

William Felton greatly admired the famous composer Handel. Felton's concertos were inspired by Handel's style. There is a story about Felton wanting Handel to be a supporter of his music. A friend of Felton's asked Handel if his name could be on a list of people supporting Felton's second set of concertos.

Handel was known for being quite strong-willed. According to the story, when asked, Handel became very angry. He shouted, "A parson make concerto! Why he no make sermon!" This shows that Handel thought a clergyman like Felton should focus on sermons, not music. Despite this, Felton continued to compose and perform.

Other Contributions

Besides writing music for the harpsichord and other instruments, William Felton was also a skilled performer himself. He is credited with composing the popular glee "Fill, fill, fill the glass." A glee is a type of English song for three or more voices, usually sung without musical accompaniment.

Felton also helped organize important music events. He served as a steward, meaning he helped manage, the Three Choir Festivals in Hereford in 1744 and Gloucester in 1745. These festivals are among the oldest music festivals in the world.

Later Life and Legacy

William Felton passed away on December 6, 1769. He was buried in Hereford Cathedral, where he had once sung in the choir. His music, especially his concertos and lessons, helped many young musicians learn and enjoy playing instruments during his time.