Johann Ernst Galliard (1687-1749) was a German composer, oboist and organist, active mainly in England. He was born in Celle, where he received the foundations of his musical education. He later studied under Georg Philipp Telemann and G. F. Handel, which influenced his style. In 1706 he moved to London, where he spent most of his life. In England he quickly gained a reputation as an outstanding composer and musician. He worked as an oboist in the Royal Orchestra and as organist in several important London churches. Galliard was also a member of the prestigious London Academy of Ancient Music. Galliard's work includes chamber music, cantatas, operas and instrumental pieces. Among his best-known works are his sonatas for solo instruments and basso continuo. His compositions are characterized by their melodic purity, baroque elegance, and technical skill that comes from his experience as an instrumentalist.