Dictionary of National Biography, 1885-1900/Klose, Francis Joseph
KLOSE, FRANCIS JOSEPH (1784–1830), musical composer, born in London in 1784, was son of a professor of music, who gave him his first instruction. At a later period Klose studied pianoforte-playing and musical composition under Franz Tomisch, a pupil of Haydn. He was a member of the orchestra of the King's Theatre and of the Concerts of Antient Music, and an instrumental performer of great excellence. But he acquired so large a connection as a teacher of the piano that he gave up most of his public engagements and devoted himself almost entirely to teaching. As a composer he was much esteemed in his day for his pathetic and sentimental ballads; while his pianoforte music was considered excellent for teaching purposes. He died in Beaumont Street, Marylebone, on 8 March 1830, aged 46 (parish register).
Of his numerous published compositions the following proved most popular: 1. Piano, &c. Sonatinas for pianoforte and violin; Instruction book for pianoforte; Grand Sonata for pianoforte, violin, and flute; eight books of selected melodies; Grand Overture and ballets; ‘Les Desguisemens Amoureux,’ for the King's Theatre. 2. Songs.—‘The Rose,’ ‘My Native Land,’ ‘Canst thou bid my heart.’ Klose also published ‘Practical Hints for acquiring Thoroughbass,’ London, 8vo, 1822, which was very popular in its day.
[Dict of Mus. 1824; Georgian Era, iv. 532; Gent. Mag. 1830, pt. i. pp. 472–3.]