Wesley, Samuel (1766–1837)

English organist, composer, and conductor, regarded as the best organist of his day. He was brother of Charles Wesley, and nephew of John Wesley (the founder of Methodism). He did much to spread a knowledge of Bach in England, and edited some of his works. He conducted the Birmingham Festival in 1811, lectured at the Royal Institution, and gave frequent organ recitals.

Like his brother he showed precocious musical gifts at a very early age. At the age of six he was taught by the organist of the church of St James, in Barton, Bristol, England. At age eight he finished the oratorio Ruth, and soon after appeared at the organ as a prodigy. In 1787 a fall left him with a recurrent illness, ending his career. He wrote many masses, motets, anthems (including In exitu Israel), and also secular music.

Works Oratorio Ruth (1744) and The Death of Abel (1799).

Choral four masses, numerous Latin and English anthems, including In exitu Israel, Exultate Deo, Dixit Dominus, All go unto one place, Behold how good, Hear, O thou shepherd (some with organ), Morning and Evening Service in F major and other church music; Ode on St Cecilia's Day.

Orchestral four symphonies (1784–1802), and five overtures; organ and violin concertos.

Chamber two string quartets and other chamber music.

Other opera fugues, voluntaries; numerous piano works' glees, songs, and duets.