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English cellist, composer, and esteemed pedagogue known for his significant contributions to the cello repertoire, particularly popular salon pieces and pedagogical works.William Henry Squire was a prominent English cellist and composer. A child prodigy, he studied at the Royal College of Music under Edward Howell. He enjoyed a successful performing career as a soloist and principal cellist with the Halle Orchestra. Later, he became a highly influential teacher at the RCM and Guildhall School of Music. He composed numerous accessible works for cello, including the enduringly popular 'Danse Rustique'.

• Squire demonstrated exceptional talent very early, performing publicly by the age of seven.
• His composition 'Danse Rustique', Op. 20, No. 5 remains one of his most famous and frequently performed works, a staple in the cello repertoire for students and professionals alike.
• He held prestigious teaching positions for many years: Professor of Cello at the Royal College of Music (1898-1917) and later at the Guildhall School of Music (from 1911).
• Squire died peacefully in his sleep at his home in London in 1963 at the age of 91.