Charles E. Wheeler

Wheeler, Charles E.

Charles E. (Edward) Wheeler. Organist, teacher, composer, b London, Ont, 1870, d there 25 Nov 1949; FRCCO. After early studies with Carl Verrinder, W. James. Birks, George Sippi, and J.W. Featherston, Wheeler had organ and theory lessons in Toronto with F.H. Torrington and W.O. Forsyth respectively. He then studied in Leipzig with Bruno Zwintscher (piano), Paul Homeyer (organ), and Gustav Schreck (theory). On his return to Canada he became organist at First Congregational Church, London, then served for 47 years (1890-1937) at St Andrew's United Church. For many years he also was music director of the London Normal School. He was the first registrar of the Canadian Guild of Organists (RCCO), vice-president in 1918, and president 1923-5. Wheeler became widely known through his weekly organ broadcasts. Besides teaching piano, organ, and voice he directed various musical societies in London and presented a number of light operas. In later years (1938-45) he was organist at Dundas Centre United Church. Of his compositions approximately 40 anthems and 10 songs were published (Nordheimer and Anglo-Canadian). He also wrote two cantatas, Hagar and A Song of Praise.