A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Anacreontic Society

by Charles Mackeson

ANACREONTIC SOCIETY. The meetings of this aristocratic society, established by several noblemen and other wealthy amateurs, were held at the Crown and Anchor Tavern in the Strand towards the close of the last century. The concerts, in which the leading members of the musical profession took part as honorary members, were given fortnightly during the season, and were followed by a supper, after which the president or his deputy sang the constitutional song 'To Anacreon in Heaven.' This was succeeded by songs in every style, and by catches and glees sung by the most eminent vocalists of the day. The privilege of membership was greatly valued, and names were frequently placed on the list for a long period in advance. The society was dissolved in 1786, when Sir Richard Hankey was president, owing, as Parke states in his 'Musical Memoirs,' to the annoyance of the members at a restraint having been placed upon the performance of some comic songs which were considered unfit for the ears of the Duchess of Devonshire, the leader of the haut-ton of the day, who was present privately in a box specially fitted up under the orchestra. The members resigned one after another, and shortly afterwards the society was dissolved at a general meeting.

[ C. M. ]