A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Willy, John
WILLY, John Thomas, violin-player, born in London, July 24, 1812. He was for some time a pupil of Spagnoletti's, and became a member of the King's Theatre band. He played under Costa as a first violin, and later as principal second, during the whole of his career. He led the 'Elijah' at Birmingham in 1846, and was leader at various other festivals; at Jullien's and the London Wednesday Concerts, the new Philharmonic, the National Choral, the Society of British Musicians (of which he became a member in 1837), etc. etc. In 1849–50, and again in 1860, he gave classical chamber concerts at St. Martin's Hall, very much on the plan of the present 'Popular Concerts.' Among the artists who appeared were Mesdames Goddard, Louisa Pyne, Dolby, Mr. Sims Reeves, Sterndale Bennett, Ernst, Piatti, Pauer, etc. He retired from active work in 1880, owing to failing health, and died in London, Aug. 8, 1885.
[ A. C. ]