John Blow (1649-1708) was an English composer and organist. He was born in Norfolk, England, and received his musical education at the Chapel Royal, where he studied with several prominent musicians of the time, including William Child and Christopher Gibbons. Blow is known for his contributions to the development of English opera, and is credited with writing the first English opera to be performed in public, “Venus and Adonis,” which was premiered in 1683. He is also known for his anthems and other choral works, as well as his organ music.
Blow served as the organist of Westminster Abbey for many years, and was also a respected teacher, with several well-known musicians, including Henry Purcell, among his students. Blow’s music is known for its expressive melodies and formal structure.