Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

March 12, 1710 in London, England

Death

:

March 5, 1778 in London, England

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Classical

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

Thomas Arne was a prominent English composer of the 18th century, known for his contributions to the development of English opera and his popular patriotic songs. He was born on March 12, 1710, in London, England, to a family of musicians. His father, Thomas Arne Sr., was a successful upholsterer and amateur musician, while his mother, Mary, was a singer and actress. Arne showed an early aptitude for music and began his formal training at the age of nine. He studied under Michael Festing, a prominent violinist and composer, and later under Maurice Greene, the organist and composer of the Chapel Royal. Arne's talent was recognized early on, and he was appointed organist at St. Paul's Church in Covent Garden at the age of 18. In 1733, Arne composed his first opera, Rosamond, which was a great success and established him as a leading composer of English opera. He went on to compose several more operas, including Artaxerxes, which was one of the most popular operas of the 18th century. Arne's operas were known for their catchy tunes, lively rhythms, and dramatic flair, and they helped to establish a distinctively English style of opera. In addition to his operas, Arne composed a number of instrumental works, including concertos, sonatas, and overtures. He was also a prolific composer of vocal music, including songs, cantatas, and oratorios. One of his most famous works is the patriotic song "Rule, Britannia!", which he composed in 1740 for a masque called Alfred. The song became an instant hit and has since become an unofficial national anthem of England. Arne was also a successful music publisher and entrepreneur. He founded the first music shop in London and was one of the first composers to sell his music directly to the public. He also established a music festival in the city of Bath, which became a popular destination for music lovers. Despite his success, Arne faced several setbacks in his career. He suffered from financial difficulties throughout his life and was often forced to borrow money to support his family. He also faced competition from other composers, such as George Frideric Handel, who was a dominant figure in the English music scene during Arne's lifetime. Arne died on March 5, 1778, at the age of 67. He left behind a legacy as one of the most important composers of English music in the 18th century. His contributions to the development of English opera and his popular patriotic songs have ensured his place in the history of classical music.

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