John Weeks Moore

“ Most of his songs are likewise extremely energetic and vigorous ; this, in particular, is the characteristic of the two bass songs, "Poised in heaven's eternal scale," and " Thus when young Ammon marched along." As proofs of the beauty and originality of his fancy in ballad composition, every one will admit the charming pastoral melody of "Ye shepherds and nymphs of the grove," the mellifluous and affecting air of "When Damon languished at my feet," the expressive passages in "When beauty on the lover's cheek," and, above all, his popular song of "Kate of Aberdeen." ”

“ Notwithstanding Battishill's numerous engagements with the theatre and his pupils, he by no means neglected the study of sacred music, but produced at different times several anthems and hymns, which, for their various excellences, have been much admired. In the composition of &Itches and glees, he has afforded numerous proofs of the diversity of his taste and genius. ”

“ With respect to the general character of Battishill's compositions, they are marked by a peculiar strength of idea, great force and justness of expression, a masterly disposition, and a happy contrivance in the parts. Four of his anthems, "Call to remembrance," "How long wilt thou forget me, 0 Lord ?" "I will magnify thee, 0 Lord," and "Deliver us, 0 Lord our God," are printed in Page's Harmonia Sacra. He also left in manuscript at his death six anthems, several psalm tunes, and some glees, rondos, and songs. ”