Composer: John Goss

From HymnsWithoutWords

Biography

Sir John Goss (1800 - 1880) was an English organist and composer. He was born in Fareham where his father was organist at the parish church. He became a chorister at the Chapel Royal and studied under Thomas Attwood, whom he succeeded as organist at St. Paul's Cathedral in 1838. Goss's own pupils included Arthur Sullivan.

As a composer, he is best remembered for his Anglican church music and glees. His Evening Service in E major was very popular in its day and is still sung at Westminster Abbey. His anthem O Saviour of the World is also widely performed, as are many of his Anglican chants. Goss was knighted in 1872 and died in London.