Born in London in 1810, son of the composer Samuel Wesley and grandson of Charles Wesley, this choral evensong celebrates the 200th anniversary of Samuel Sebastian Wesley's birth.

After singing in the choir of the Chapel Royal as a boy, Samuel Sebastian embarked on a career as a musician, becoming organist of Hereford Cathedral in 1832, transferring to Exeter Cathedral three years later, and subsequently holding appointments at Leeds Parish Church, Winchester Cathedral and Gloucester Cathedral. Famous as an organist in his day, he composed almost exclusively for the Church of England.