Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

July 31, 1808

Death

:

August 1, 1896

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Frederick Nicholls Crouch was a British-born composer and musician who lived during the 19th century. He was born on May 5, 1808, in Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire, England. Crouch was the son of a musician, and he grew up in a musical family. His father, William Crouch, was a violinist and music teacher, and his mother, Mary Nicholls, was a singer. Crouch showed an early interest in music and began studying the violin with his father at a young age. He also learned to play the piano and the flute. By the age of 12, Crouch was already performing in public concerts, and he soon became known for his musical talent. In 1824, Crouch moved to London to pursue a career in music. He began studying composition with the renowned composer William Crotch, and he also studied the violin with John Cramer. Crouch quickly established himself as a talented musician and composer, and he began to receive commissions for his work. One of Crouch's most famous compositions is the song "Kathleen Mavourneen." The song was written in 1837 and quickly became popular in both England and the United States. It was performed by many famous singers of the time, including Jenny Lind and Adelina Patti. "Kathleen Mavourneen" is still a popular song today and has been recorded by many artists over the years. Crouch also composed a number of operas and other works for the stage. His first opera, "The Mountain Sylph," was premiered in London in 1834. The opera was a success and was later performed in New York and other cities in the United States. Crouch went on to compose several more operas, including "The Fairy of the Lake" and "The Rose of Erin." In addition to his work as a composer, Crouch was also a talented performer. He was known for his skill on the violin and often performed in public concerts. He also played the flute and the piano and was a skilled conductor. Crouch moved to the United States in 1852 and settled in New York City. He continued to compose and perform, and he also became involved in the music publishing industry. He worked for several music publishers, including Firth, Pond & Co. and Oliver Ditson & Co. Crouch's later years were marked by financial difficulties and health problems. He suffered from rheumatism and was unable to play the violin in his later years. He died on August 18, 1896, in Brooklyn, New York, at the age of 88. Despite his financial difficulties, Crouch left behind a legacy of beautiful music. His compositions, including "Kathleen Mavourneen" and his operas, continue to be performed and enjoyed today. Crouch was a talented musician and composer who made significant contributions to the world of classical music.

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