A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Griffin, George

by William H. Husk

GRIFFIN, George Eugene, pianist and composer, was born Jan. 8, 1781. At sixteen years of age made his first appearance as a composer by the production of a concerto for pianoforte and orchestra, in which the melody of 'The Blue Bell of Scotland' was introduced. He next published a P.F. sonata, with ad libitum violin, and an 'Ode to Charity,' inscribed to the supporters of the Patriotic Fund, and published in 1806. His remaining compositions, with the exception of three quartets for stringed instruments, were all for the pianoforte, either alone or in conjunction with other instruments. They comprise two concertos for P.F. and orchestra; a quartet for pianoforte and strings; four sonatas; five divertimentos; four rondos; six marches; six airs; a capriccio; an introduction to an arrangement of the military movement from Haydn's 12th symphony; and two sets of quadrilles. Griffin was one of the original members of the Philharmonic Society. One of his stringed quartets was given by that body on Feb. 28, 1814, and his P.F. quartet on April 14, 1817, he himself playing the P.F. part. Griffin was stricken with mortal illness whilst attending one of the Society's concerts, and died a few days afterwards in May 1863. His compositions were formed upon classical models, and were esteemed in their day, although now forgotten.

[ W. H. H. ]