William Hayes

Full biography William Hayes

William Hayes (1706 - 27 July 1777) was an English composer ), organist, singer, and conductor. He was born in Gloucester, England, and began his musical career as a chorister at Magdalen College, Oxford. He held various positions as an organist and choirmaster in Oxford and London throughout his career. In 1741, Hayes was appointed as Professor of Music at the University of Oxford , a position he held until his death in 1777. During his tenure, he was responsible for the musical education of the students at Oxford and for the music performed at the university ceremonies and events.

Hayes composed a wide range of vocal and instrumental music, including cantatas, odes, anthems, organ voluntaries, and incidental music for plays. His music was influenced by the baroque style of his predecessors Handel and Purcell, and he was particularly known for his skillful use of counterpoint and his ability to blend different choral and instrumental textures.

In addition to his work in music composition, Hayes was also a prolific writer on music theory and practice. He wrote several treatises on musical composition, including A General History of Music and An Introduction to the Principles of Music.

Hayes was regarded as one of the leading English composers of his time, and his music had a significant impact on the development of English music in the 18th century. His legacy continues to inspire musicians and composers to this day.