English violinist and composer. Fisher studied with Thomas Pinto and began working as a violinist in London theatre orchestras, making his debut at the King’s Theatre on 25 January 25, 1765. From ca 1769 through 1778 he was leader at Covent Garden, contributing music for productions such as the burlesque The Golden Pippin (1773). His theatrical music enjoyed considerable success but, like that of most English-born composers, Fisher’s music did not find a place in the winter concerts series in London which were often organised by continental musicians and which even more often featured the music of continental composers. His songs and symphonic works were, however, performed in the concerts of the summer pleasure gardens of London, especially at Vauxhall Gardens where Fisher led the orchestra for a time. He also wrote violin pieces, six symphonies (c1775), an oratorio, as well as many popular pleasure-garden songs. He later made a tour of the Continent, and even as far-a-field as Russia; while in Vienna married Nancy Storace but was expelled by the emperor for his behaviour towards her. Later he spent time in Ireland, spending his final years in Dublin. His works have an energetic, galant style; his three violin concertos (c 1782) reflect his exceptional technical skill.