LINLEY

linley, thomas (1732-1795), english musician, was born at wells, somerset, and studied music at bath, where he settled as a singing-master and conductor of the concerts. from 1774 he was engaged in the management at drury lane theatre, london, composing or compiling the music of many of the pieces produced there, besides songs and madrigals, which rank high among english compositions. he died in london on the 19th of november 1795. his eldest son thomas (1756-1778) was a remarkable violinist, and also a composer, who assisted his father; and he became a warm friend of mozart. his works, with some of his father's, were published in two volumes, and these contain some lovely madrigals and songs. another son, william (1771-1835), who held a writership at madras, was devoted to literature and music and composed glees and songs. three daughters were similarly gifted, and were remarkable both for singing and beauty; the eldest of them elizabeth ann (1754-1792), married richard brinsley sheridan in 1773, and thus linked the fortunes of her family with his career.