William Selby

William Selby (1738–1798 ) was an English organist, harpsichordist, choirmaster and composer who emigrated to America.

Early life Born in England and baptised in London on 1 January 1739, Selby was the third known son of Joseph and Mary Selby. Beginning at the age of 17, he held several positions in London as organist including at St Sepulchre-without-Newgate (1760–1770) and also at the now demolished All Hallows, Bread Street (1756–73). He was also organist to the Magdalen Hospital (1766–9). Selby published both sacred and secular music between 1665 and 1670, most notably the nine psalm and hymn settings included in A Second Collection of Psalms and Hymns Used at the Magdalen Chapel (c 1770), which also included works by Thomas Arne.

Selby's surviving works include two voluntaries and one Fugue for the organ, a lesson in C for the harpsichord, and an anthem for Thanksgiving Day. His Boston compositions included a Jubilate and three anthems, including Behold, he is my salvation, composed for the rededication of Old South Church, Boston. In addition to his musical endeavors, he managed a grocery and liquor shop.