John Henry Maunder

Born: 1858, Chelsea, England.

Died: 1920, Brighton, England.

Maunder  attended the the Royal Academy of Music, and played the organ St. Matthew’s, Sydenham (1876-7); St. Paul’s, Forest Hill (1878-9) and at churches in Blackheath and Sutton. He provided accompaniment for concerts in Albert Hall, and, starting in 1881, conducted of the Civil Service Vocal Union. His works include: ‘Olivet to Calvary’, ‘Bethlehem’ ,’Penitence, Pardon and Peace’ and ‘The Martyrs’, a cantata for men’s voices. Before turning to sacred music he wrote operettas, including 'Daisy Dingle' (1885)and 'The Superior Sex' (1885). 

Olivet to Calvary is typical of much of the church music of its time. Considered by some to be over sentimental by modern tastes it was nevertheless a work sincerely written and should be judged as such. Although more or less shunned 30 years ago it has become very popular and is regularly performed all over the world.  Similar works of the time are the better known ‘Crucifixion’ written by Sir John Stainer and the less well known ‘The Darkest Hour’ by Harold Moore.