Johann Christoph Pepusch

Johann Christoph Pepusch (1667 – 20 July 1752), also known as John Christopher Pepusch and Dr Pepusch, was a German-born composer. He spent most of his working life in England.

Pepusch was born in Berlin. He studied music theory under Martin Klingenberg, cantor of the Marienkirche in Berlin. At the age of 14, he was appointed to the Prussian court where he gave music lessons to the future Frederick William I of Prussia. In about 1700, he settled in England.

In 1726, Pepusch founded The Academy of Vocal Music with others; in around 1730–1, it was renamed The Academy of Ancient Music. In Joseph Doane's Musical directory for the year 1794, the founding of the Academy is discussed. On page 76, Doane states:

In the year 1710 (memorable for Handel’s first appearance among us) a number of the most eminent composers and performers in London [agreed] to concert a plan of an Academy for the study and practice of Vocal and Instrumental Music, which was no sooner announced than it met the countenance and support of the principal persons of rank. Among the foremost in this undertaking were Mr. John Christopher Pepusch, Mr. John Earnest Galleard, an excellent composer and performer on the Oboe, Mr. Bernard Gates of the Queen’s Chapel, Henry Niedler, etc.

Pepusch remained Director of the Academy until his death in 1752, whereupon he was succeeded by Benjamin Cooke. Pepusch died in London.

During a period of twenty years, Pepusch directed the musical establishment at Cannons, a large house northwest of London. He was employed there by James Brydges, 1st Duke of Chandos. For a few years he worked alongside George Frideric Handel, who had a role described as composer in residence. Both men were at Cannons in 1717/18.

Pepusch is best known for his arrangement of the music for The Beggar's Opera (1728) — to the libretto of John Gay. He composed many other works, including stage and church music as well as concertos and continuo sonatas.