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Composer

Samuel Arnold

Samuel Arnold: A Prolific Composer

Samuel Arnold, born on August 10, 1740, in London, was a renowned English composer and organist. His career spanned multiple roles and genres, including opera, symphonies, and sacred music. He was the son of Thomas Arnold and possibly Princess Amalia, although this claim is not universally agreed upon and is often presented as speculation rather than established fact. There is also no conclusive evidence that Princess Amalia was a direct pupil of Handel, as some sources suggest.

Early Life and Education

Arnold studied under Bernard Gates, a student of John Blow, and began his musical journey as a choir boy at the Chapel Royal. He was educated in music, eventually becoming a successful composer and organist.

Notable Works and Positions

His first notable opera was The Maid of the Mill (1765), performed at Covent Garden. Arnold held various prestigious positions, including Composer to Covent Garden Theatre, Music director of the Theatre Royal in the Haymarket (1777), Organist and composer to the Chapel Royal (1783), Conductor of the Academy of Ancient Music (1789), and Organist at Westminster Abbey (1793).

Legacy

Arnold's compositions include sonatas, symphonies, oratorios, ballad operas, farces, and pantomimes. His Cathedral Music (1790) supplemented William Boyce's Cathedral Music significantly. Notably, Arnold worked on a 180-part edition of George Frideric Handel's works (1787–97), although it was unfinished and received criticism for defects.

Recent Recordings and Collaborations

Recent recordings featuring Samuel Arnold's works include "While Shepherds Watched: Christmas Music from Parish Churches" (English Orpheus 40) and "O Tuneful Voice: Songs & Duets from Late 18th-Century London" (English Orpheus 5). These recordings highlight Arnold's contributions to English music, showcasing his diversity.

In these performances, Arnold collaborated with acclaimed musicians, including Emma Kirkby, Rufus Müller, and Timothy Roberts, under the subheadline, "Psalmody, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman." Their exceptional talent brings richness and depth to Samuel Arnold's works, making them shine even brighter.

STAGE+ Exploration

Visit STAGE+ for a captivating exploration into the fascinating works by Samuel Arnold. Known for his exquisite compositions, Arnold's pieces continue to capture the hearts of many. This post delves into the detail of his selected works and the unforgettable performances that bring his works to life. Stay tuned as we dive deep into the mesmerizing world of Samuel Arnold's compositions.