The British Musical Biography

[E] Simms, Henry, organist and pianist, born
in 1801. Son of Jesse Simms. He was a
pupil of Moscheles for pf., to whom he dedi-
cated a Polacca. Appointed organist of Holy
Trinity, Bordesley, in 1825, he held that office
until 1875 ; whilst he was also organist at St.
Philip's, Birmingham, 1829-71. He was
famous as an extempore player, and widely
known as a teacher of pf . and singing. His
compositions were chiefl\" teaching pieces for
pf . and songs ; but he also wrote a Communion
Service which remained in MS. He died,
May 1, 1872.

[+] Robert Henry, his eldest son, was born at
Highgate, Birmingham, in 1829. Pupil of
his father, and later of R.A.M. In 1851 he
was appointed Music blaster at Chester
College ; and organist at Wrexham Parish
Church in 1853. Up to June 29, 1856, he
occupied his usual post at the organ, but the
}iext Sunday he expired as the bells were
ringing for morning Service. His brother
arrived from Birmingham the previous even-
ing, to take his place, but on the Sunday, by
the Vicar's desire, the organ remained silent
as a mark of respect to the artist so suddenly
passed away.

[+] Edward Bishop Simms, the second son of
Henry Simms, was also the pupil of his father.
He studied pf. under Cipriani Potter. Suc-
ceeded his brother as organist of Wrexham
Parish Church, August, 1856 ; and resigned in
December, 1894. He was Music Master at
Chester College, 1856-86 ; and is still resident
at Wrexham as a teacher.

entry id: 373-R-40