Composer: George Thomas Smart

From HymnsWithoutWords

Sir George Thomas Smart (1776 - 1867) was an English musician. Norn in London, his father was a music-seller. He was a choirboy at the Chapel Royal and studied music, becoming an expert violinist, organist and teacher of singing as well as a conductor. In 1811 he was knighted by the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, having conducted a number of successful concerts in Dublin.

Sir George Smart became a leading light in English musical circles, conducting at the Royal Philharmonic Society, Covent Garden and many provincial festivals. In 1838 he was appointed composer to the Chapel Royal. He was a master of the Handelian traditions, was personally acquainted with Beethoven and a close friend of Weber, who died in his house. Some of his church music and glees still remain well-known. He died in London.

His brother Henry (1778 – 1823), father of the composer Henry Thomas Smart, was a well-known violinist.