William Boyce, an English composer, born in London in 1710, died in February, 1779. He was the son of a mechanic, and was placed under the "tuition of Charles King, choir master of St. Paul's cathedral. When his voice changed he commenced the study of harmony and the organ, and became organist first at the Oxford chapel, and subsequently at St. Michael's, and composer for the royal chapel. He received the degree of doctor of music from Cambridge university in 1749. In 1758 he became conductor of the royal orchestra, directing in that capacity the music at the triennial gatherings of the cathedral choirs of Worcester, Hereford, and Gloucester. His principal compositions are church services, which are still held in high esteem and are in constant use both in England and the United States. Several years of his life were devoted to the collection and publication in score of the best works of the composers of English church music from the earliest times to his own. He wrote also 12 trios for two violins and bass, eight symphonies, and many anthems of much excellence. One of the latter, " Blessed is he that considered the poor," is sung every year at the festival given for the sons of the clergy.

He also wrote two musical dramas entitled "The Chaplet" and " The Shepherd's Lottery." He was buried in St. Paul's cathedral.