Miller, Edward

Composer

b Norwich, Norfolk 1735, d Doncaster, Yorks 1807. Having begun to follow his father in the stone-paving trade, he left home abruptly to study music, playing the flute in Handel’s London orchestra at an early age. He studied under Chas Burney at King’s Lynn, and became organist of Doncaster Parish Ch, Yorks, for over 50 years, 1756–1807. Among his many publications were a history of Doncaster (1804). and numerous musical works. The Psalms of David set to New Music (1774) attracted some 5000 subscribers including King George III. A further Psalm collection ‘for the use of Parish Churches’ appeared in 1790, and his Thoughts on the Present Performance of Psalmody were specifically addressed to the clergy in the following year. The Psalms clearly being a special concern of his, collections designed for Methodists followed in 1801, and for Independents in 1802. Cambridge DMus 1786. The Marquis of Rockingham being a friend and patron, his title is commemorated in Miller’s most celebrated tune. No.453=910.