Jean Paul Hobler
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Jean Paul Hobler, or John Paul Hobler as he was commonly known, was born 5 July 1754 in London, England, the son of Swiss immigrant Jean Francois Hobler and his London born wife Charlotte Elizabeth Claudon.
John Paul was revered for his watch and clock making skills although he is perhaps better known as an alto tenor. He gave grand performances in Westminster Abbey and regualry performed at Drury Lane and Coleman's Theatre. He was an active member of the Concert of Ancient Music, the Anacreontic Society, the Academy of Ancient Music, and St. Paul's Choir.
John Paul Hobler was listed in the Musical Directory for the Year 1794 by Joseph Doane; published by R.H. Westley, Stationer, 201 Strand and re-issued by the Royal College of Music, London in 1993. He is also the author of "The words of the favourite pieces; as performed at the Glee Club, held at the Crown and Anchor tavern, Strand" which was sold by H.D. Symonds in 1794 (a copy is currently held by the Guildhall Library).
John Paul worked with his father in the family business Hobler & Son, Huguenot Watch and Clock Makers who exported to America and the East Indies. In 1770, John Paul was made an honorary freeman of the Clockmaker's Company. His lesiure time was spent entertaining theatre and concert patrons via his chorus comittments.
Baptised at the Glasshouse St and Leicester Filds Church in Westminster in 1754, John Paul Hobler married wife Louisa Foy in 1792 and died at St James three years later, 8 May 1795.
