The period covered by the life of Samuel Wesley, 1766–1837, is remarkable in the history of modern music, following, as it did, close on the time of Bach and Handel, and being coincident, as it was, with the times of all the most illustrious of those composers whose works have become our classical heritage. To have been eminent amid such surroundings as he lived in implies much, and I hope may justify my endeavour to engage your attention and interest while I speak for a short time this evening upon the life, times, and influence of Samuel Wesley.