The British Musical Biography

[E] Beckwith, John Christmas, composer
and organist, born at Norwich, December 25,
1750. Studied under Dr. Wm. and Philip
Hayes, at St. Magdalen College, Oxford. Or-
ganist of St. Peter's, Mancroft, Norwich,
1794. Organist of Norwich Cathedral in suc-
cession to Thos. Garland, 1808. Mus. Bac.
and Doc. Oxon, 1803. Instructed Thomas
Vaughan, the vocalist, in singing. Died at
Norwich, June 3, 1809.

[W] Works. — The First verse of every Psalm
of David, with an ancient or modern chant in
score, adapted as much as possible to the sen-
timent of each Psalm. London, 1808. Six
Anthems in Score, for 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 voices.
London [1790]. Glees: Hark, o'er the waves;
Chimney sweepers ; Favourite concerto for the
organ, harpsichord, or pianoforte, op. 4 [1795] ;
Sonata for the harpsichord or pf., op. 3 ; Six
voluntaries for the organ or harpsichord, Lon-
don, 1780 ; Songs, etc.
Beckwith was an organist of much genius,
and was famous for his extempore playing.
The name, "Christmas," is supposed to be a
nickname given on account of his birthday.
His son, John Charles (born 1788, died Oc-
tober 5, 1828) was an organist of much ability,
and succeeded to the post at Norwich Cathe-
dral in 1809. His uncle, John Beckwith
(born 1728, died May 14, 1800), was a lay-
clerk in Norwich cathedral. His brother, the
Rev. Edward James Beckwith (died January
7, 1833), was succentor of St. Paul's Cathedral,
and the composer af some chants.

entry id: 38-L-18