A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Dubourg, Matthew

DUBOURG, Matthew, an eminent English violinist, pupil of Geminiani, born in London 1703. It is reported that he first appeared as a boy at one of the concerts of Britton the small-coal man, when he performed a solo of Corelli with great success, standing on a high stool. In 1728 he was appointed to succeed Cousser as conductor of the Viceroy's band at Dublin, in which capacity he set many odes for the celebration of royal birthdays. During his residence there he led the band at the performances given by Handel during his visit to Ireland in 1741, and then had the distinction of assisting at the first performance of the 'Messiah.' Later he returned to London, and in 1752 succeeded Festing as master of the King's band, which post he retained up to his death in 1767. He lies in Paddington churchyard. Dubourg appears to have been a brilliant performer and fond of showing off his skill. Burney relates that on one occasion he introduced a cadenza of extraordinary length into the ritornelle of an air. When at last he finished up, Handel, who was conducting, exclaimed: 'Welcome home, Mr. Dubourg.'

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