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Wilhelm Cramer

(1746-1799), Violinist

Sitter in 2 portraits
Born in Manheim, the violinist and composer Cramer came to London in 1772 on the invitation of J.C. Bach. His success, and the demand for him as both lead violin and solist encouraged him to settle in London. He was hailed as a virtuoso and throughout the 1770s and 1780s he performed widely. As Chamber Musician to King George III he directed all concerts at Buckingham Palace and Windsor. Cramer also led the Handel Commemoration Concerts in Westminster Abbey, between 1784 and 1791.

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Wilhelm Cramer

by Thomas Hardy
oil on canvas, 1794
NPG 6198

Wilhelm Cramer

by Thomas Hardy, published by John Bland
stipple engraving, published 6 June 1794 (1794)
NPG D19751

Related People

Johann Baptist Cramer (son)

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Musicians

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Wilhelm Cramer