A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Richards, Brinley

RICHARDS, Brinley, son of Henry Richards, organist of St. Peter's, Carmarthen, was born in 1819, and intended for the medical profession, but preferred the study of music, and became a pupil of the Royal Academy of Music, where he obtained the King's scholarship in 1835, and again in 1837. He soon gained a high position in London as a pianist. As a composer he has been very successful, his song 'God bless the Prince of Wales' having reached a high pitch of popularity, even out of England, and his sacred songs, part songs, and pianoforte pieces having been most favourably received. He composed additional songs for the English version of Auber's 'Crown Diamonds,' when produced at Drury Lane in 1846. He has especially devoted himself to the study of Welsh music (upon which he has lectured), and many of his compositions have been inspired by his enthusiastic love for his native land. He exerted himself greatly in promoting the interests of the South Wales Choral Union on its visits to London in 1872 and 1873, when they successfully competed at the National Music Meetings at the Crystal Palace. As a teacher Mr. Richards is deservedly esteemed and has a very large clientele in London. [App. p.772 "date of death, May 1, 1885."]

[ W. H. H. ]