Thomas Wingham

Born in London, 5 January, 1846; died there, 24 March, 1893. He studied music at Wylde's London Academy, and later entered the Royal Academy of Music, where he had for his teacher in theory William Sterndale Bennett, and, in piano playing, Harold Thomas. In 1817 Wingham became himself professor of piano playing in the same institution. At about the same period he obtained the post of choirmaster at the Brompton Oratory. Wingham's sound musicianship and ability were soon proved by the artistic excellence for which the performances at the Oratory became known during his incumbency. He was the artistic pioneer who prepared the way for the musico-liturgical conditions which have since followed. Among his compositions are four symphonies, six overtures, several instrumental works in smaller form, two masses, and a "Te Deum", most of which, though frequently performed during the author's lifetime, have remained in manuscript.