(b London, 2 March 1813; d there, 31 Oct 1887). English composer. He studied at the RAM becoming professor (from 1875 principal) there and at Cambridge. In spite of being blind (from 1860) he remained active as an author and lecturer, editor and composer, receiving a knighthood in 1883. One of the most prolific 19th-century composers, he won modest success with his operas, notably King Charles II (1849) and Robin Hood (1860), but wrote mainly choral, orchestral and chamber music (including nine symphonies and five string quartets) and songs; his best-known piece was the overture Chevy Chace (1837). His brother Walter (1826-1905) was a pianist and esteemed teacher at the RAM ; he composed songs, partsongs and accomplished piano pieces.
