The office of cathedral organist has perhaps the longest lineage of any branch of the musical profession in England and Wales, and its occupants, many of them among the leading musicians of their day, have done much to shape the character of musical life. This book establishes, cathedral by cathedral, the chronological sequence of these musicians from about the middle of the sixteenth century to the present time, with detailed references to historic archives. Where additional material is available, this is surrounded by details of each man's personality, the character of his training, work, and tenure, and also his relations with colleagues and superiors, while reference is made to any contribution to wider spheres of musical activity. This book provides material towards musical biography and some aspects of the sociology of music, and illuminates the changing conditions of cathedral musical life.