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Thomas Augustine Arne (March, 1710-March 5, 1778)
was an England|English composer, best known for
the popular patriotic song, Rule Britannia, which
is still frequently sung, notably at the Last
Night of the Proms; and also his musical settings
of songs from the plays of William Shakespeare.

Arne was born in the Covent Garden area of London,
to a family that had prospered in the upholstery
business.  He was educated at Eton College, and
was interested in music from his earliest youth. 
A chance meeting with Michael Festing gave him the
opportunity to indulge his interest, though his
father still wanted him to become a lawyer.

Arne's sister, Susannah Maria Arne, was a famous
contralto who performed in some of his works,
including his first opera, Rosamund, performed in 
1733.  She had been taught to sing by her brother,
and had first performed with him in 1732, along
with their brother Richard.  In 1736, Arne married
another singer, Cecilia Young (whose sister,
Isabella, married the composer John Frederick
Lampe).  Arne's operas and masques became very
popular, and he received the patronage of
Frederick, Prince of Wales, at whose country home,
Cliveden, the Masque of Alfred, containing "Rule,
Britannia", was first performed.

In 1750, after an argument with David Garrick,
Susannah left Drury Lane for Covent Garden
Theatre, and her brother followed.  In 1755, he
separated from his wife, who, he alleged, was
mentally ill.  He had in the meantime begun a
relationship with one of his pupils, a Miss Brent,
who performed in some of his works.  She later
married a violinist.  In 1777, shortly before his
death, Arne and his wife were reconciled.  They
had one son, Michael Arne.