George J. Elvey (1816 to 1893)
Church of England
Master Organist at Royal Church.
George J. Elvey was born at Canterbury, England. At 19 he became the organist and master of the boys at St. George's Chapel in Windsor, the home church of the royal family, devoting the next 47 years of his life to that one work. He composed the music to which we sing "Crown Him With Many Crowns," "God So Loved the World" and "Come, Ye Thankful People, Come."
George Matheson (1842 to 1906)
Blind Presbyterian Hymnwriter and Pastor.
George Matheson, was born, in Glasgow. Blind from 18 years, with the aid of his two devoted sisters, George not only completed his education, but pastored from 1866 to 1899, memorizing much Scripture, and became one of the outstanding Presbyterian ministers of his day. He wrote many books, and a volume of poetry; and is best remembered as the author of the hymn "O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go" (written June 6, 1882), and "Make Me a Captive, Lord."
Josiah Booth (1852 to 1929)
Congregational Church
He Sought an Organist Position before He'd Even Played One.
Birth of Josiah Booth, organist who composed the music to which we sing "We Have heard the Joyful Sound." Largely self-taught, he applied for the position of organist at Coventry, although he had never touched an organ. Being ambitious, he became a student at the Royal Academy of Music, where he progressed rapidly. He became organist at Park Chapel (Congregational) Crounch End, London, in 1877, and served in this position for 41 years, maintaining a program of genuine excellence.