A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Osborne, George

OSBORNE, George Alexander, born in 1806 [App. p.737 "Sept. 24"] at Limerick, where his father was an organist [App. p.737 "and lay-vicar"], was a self-instructed pianist until he reached the age of 18, when he determined on making music his profession and seeking instruction on the Continent. In 1825 he repaired to Belgium, and found a home in the house of the Prince de Chimay, Cherubini's friend, the well-known musical amateur, who made him acquainted with the works of the best German composers. [App. p.737 "During his residence in Brussels he taught the present king of the Netherlands, by whom he was afterwards decorated."] In 1826 he went to Paris, and studied the pianoforte under Pixis, and harmony under Fétis. He afterwards placed himself under Kalkbrenner, and soon obtained a good position among the pianists of the day, took his full share in the musical life at that time so abundant in Paris, and amongst other advantages enjoyed the privilege of an intimate acquaintance with Chopin and Berlioz. His recollections of these remarkable men he has recently communicated to the Musical Association. In 1843 Mr. Osborne settled in London, where he has for many years been one of the most esteemed and genial teachers. He composed, in conjunction with De Beriot, duos for pianoforte and violin, on themes from Rossini and Auber. His other works consist of string quartets and fantasias, rondos and variations for the pianoforte. [App. p.737 "omit the words string quartets, and add to list of works, three trios for piano and strings, a sextet for piano, flute, oboe, horn, cello, and double-bass. Of the many duets for piano and violin, thirty-three were written with De Bériot, the greater part of which are original, one was written in conjunction with Lafont, one with Artôt, and two with Ernst."] His 'Pluie des Perles,' a brilliant and charming drawing-room piece, was extraordinarily popular in its day. [App. p.737 "died Nov. 1893."]

[ W. H. H. ]