John Blow (Blow John)

(1649-1708)
Born February 20, 1649 in North Kollingeme (Nottinghamshire County). Was a teacher of Henry Purcell. An exceptional songwriter Blow manifested itself very early on: many of his youthful works included in the collection Clifford Church services (Divine Services). In 1660 Blow became a chorister of the Royal Chapel, and soon - its regent (June 1674). Was included in the number of organists at the Chapel. In 1668 was appointed organist at Westminster Abbey, but in 1679 this position has moved from Purcell to Blow. When his great pupil died suddenly (1695), Blow returned to the abbey, where he served until the end of life. In 1687-1702 was a regent of the Cathedral of St.. Paul. In his legacy more than a hundred chants, music for church services, works for harpsichord, he wrote one piece for the stage - opera Venus and Adonis (Venus and Adonis). Blow died in London on Oct. 1, 1708.