The Camidge family held the position of organist at York Minster for a period of 103 years. John was the initial member of the family to hold the position in 1756. He composed a number of anthems which are still in use as well as "Six Easy Lessons for the Harpsichord". It may well be that John Camidge began the custom of singing choral works from Handel's "Messiah" during Christmas and Easter services (in the place of anthems). ~ Keith Johnson, All Music Guide