George Frederick Vincent


George Frederick Vincent was an English organist, composer, and music educator. He served as organist at several churches in Sunderland from 1872 to 1900, including Holy Trinity Church, and was organist of St Michael, Cornhill, London, from 1900 to 1916. George Vincent founded the Sunderland Amateur Operatic Society in 1893 and taught at Trinity College of Music. He was the younger brother of composer Charles John Vincent.

Early life and education

George Vincent was born in Houghton-le-Spring, County Durham, the son of Charles John Vincent, an organist. Like his elder brother, he studied at the Leipzig Conservatoire.

Career

Sunderland (1872–1900)

George Vincent began his career as organist of Holy Trinity Church, Sunderland at the age of sixteen or seventeen in 1872. He subsequently served as organist at Whitburn Parish Church, County Durham, and St Thomas's Church, Sunderland.
During his time in Sunderland, George Vincent established himself as a prominent figure in the local music scene. In 1893, he founded the Sunderland Amateur Operatic Society and operated a music shop in the town.

London (1900–1916)

In 1900, George Vincent moved to London, where he succeeded Williamson John Reynolds as organist of St Michael, Cornhill, a position he held until 1916 when he was succeeded by Harold Darke. In 1914, George Vincent began the weekly Monday organ recitals at St Michael's as "Organ Services", a series that continues today and is considered the longest-running lunchtime organ recital series in the world.
George Vincent also taught at Trinity College of Music, London. He was well known and much liked by his contemporaries in the music profession. For the Incorporated Society of Musicians conference in 1901, he edited a collection of music.
George Vincent died in Brentwood, Essex, on 30 November 1928.

Works

George Vincent composed operettas, cantatas, and music for piano and organ.

Hymn tunes

SUPPLICATION – in 8.8.8.8 metre, published in 16 hymnals, used with "Shine Thou upon Us, Lord" by John Ellerton and "Thy Kingdom Come, O Lord"

Editorial work