John Stanley

John Stanley (1712-1786) was a trailblazing English composer and organist whose Baroque-era works still resonate with classical enthusiasts today. Blind since childhood, Stanley defied expectations to become one of England's most celebrated musicians, eventually earning the prestigious title of Master of the King's Music. His flair for dramatic organ voluntaries and inventive concertos – like those featured in recent recordings of his Op. 2 and Op. 10 works – helped shape 18th-century English music. Stanley's legacy bridges eras, as seen in the popular "From Stanley to Wesley" album series connecting his innovations to later composers like Samuel Wesley. Modern recordings of his flute sonatas and collaborations with Handel (whose work he championed) reveal why this visionary composer-organist remains a fixture in early music revivals, celebrated for both his technical mastery and joyful musical spirit.

Genres

Classical

Baroque

Chamber Music

Early Music

Organ Music

Flute Music

Sacred Music

Related Artists

George Frideric Handel

William Boyce

Henry Purcell

Johann Sebastian Bach

Charles Avison

Maurice Greene

Ton Koopman

John Rutter

Arvo Pärt

Samuel Barber

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Gustav Holst

Latest Release

Stanley: Voluntaries, Op. 5-7

John Stanley•

Pietro Delle Chiaie

Album - 66 Tracks - Released July 28, 2025