English cellist, born in Rotherham. From 1792, student of James Cervetto, who took him to Brighton, then London. From 1794 he was principal cellist, Royal Opera, London; also played with the principal concert societies, festivals, and eventually the Philharmonic, usually teamed with the contrabassist Dragonetti. From 1822 he taught at the Royal Academy; retired 1851. He composed cello music, especially duos. His son William (1802-69) was also a cellist. Source : Wikipedia