James Nares (composer)
An influential 18th-century English composer and organist whose sacred choral works defined the sound of the Chapel Royal for a generation.
1715–1783 (age 68)·English composer·Birthday: April 19
Biography
James Nares spent his life within the resonant stone walls of England's great churches, shaping its sacred music. Appointed organist at York Minster while still in his twenties, he later ascended to the pinnacle of his profession: Master of the Children and organist of the Chapel Royal. There, he was responsible for the music for the royal household and for training the choristers. His output was almost entirely devoted to the church—anthems, services, and chants that were both elegant and firmly within the Anglican tradition. While he composed some keyboard works, his legacy is his vocal music, which provided a dignified and polished soundtrack to Georgian worship.
#1 When James Was Born
The biggest hits of 1715
James's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1715Born
1720Started school
1728Became a teenager
1731Could drive
1733Could vote
1736Turned 21
1745Turned 30
1755Turned 40
1765Turned 50
1775Turned 60
1783Died at 68
Key Achievements
- Served as Organist and Master of the Children at the Chapel Royal, a leading musical post in Britain.
- Composed a significant body of sacred music, including anthems and chants used in Anglican services.
- Published a well-regarded set of keyboard lessons and voluntaries for the organ and harpsichord.
- Held the position of organist at York Minster, one of England's most important cathedrals.
Did You Know?
He taught music to the children of King George III.
His son, Sir James Nares, became a prominent judge of the Court of Common Pleas.
He won his first musical post as a chorister at the Chapel Royal under the composer William Croft.
Some of his chants are still in use in Anglican cathedrals today.
“Let the music serve the text, and the harmony serve the spirit.”
