Edward Jones

Edward Jones

1752–1824

The harpist and musical antiquarian Edward Jones was baptized on March 29th, 1752 in Llandderfel, Wales. He was born into a longstanding tradition of harp playing, and was taught how to play by his father. Jones moved to London in either 1774 or 1775 under the patronage of Welsh circles in London. He brought with him the melodies of Wales and as is noted for helping to preserve the tradition of Welsh music. In 1820, he was appointed harpist to the Prince of Wales, later George IV; Jones thus became known as “Bardd y Brenin” (The King’s Bard). In addition to his musical pursuits, Jones was considered a serious scholar.