A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Martin, Jonathan

MARTIN, Jonathan, born 1715, was a chorister of the Chapel Royal under Dr. Croft. On quitting the choir he was placed under Thomas Roseingrave for instruction on the organ, and soon attained such proficiency as to be able to deputise for his master at St. George's, Hanover Square, and for Weldon at the Chapel Royal. On June 21, 1736 he was admitted organist of the Chapel Royal on the death of Weldon, and promised 'to compose anthems or services for the use of His Majesty's Chapel, whenever required by the Subdean for the time being.' Probably he was never called upon to fulfil his promise, as his only known composition is a song in Rowe's tragedy, 'Tamerlane,' 'To thee, O gentle sleep.' He died of consumption, April 4, 1737, and was buried April 9, in the west cloister of Westminster Abbey.

[ W. H. H. ]