John Field (26 July 1782 – 23 January 1837) was an Irish composer and pianist who is credited with inventing the nocturne, a lyrical piano piece in a slow tempo.
Field was born in Dublin, Ireland, to a family of musicians. He began studying the piano at a young age and showed great talent. In 1802, he moved to London to study with the Italian composer Muzio Clementi.
After a few years in London, Field moved to St. Petersburg, Russia, where he became a popular pianist and composer. He was known for his delicate and expressive playing, and his nocturnes became very popular.
Field returned to London in 1832, but his health began to decline. He died in Moscow in 1837 at the age of 54.
Field's nocturnes were influential on many later composers, including Frédéric Chopin, Franz Liszt, and Claude Debussy. They are considered to be some of the most beautiful and expressive piano pieces ever written.
Field's nocturnes are still enjoyed by audiences today. They are a beautiful and evocative example of the Romantic piano style.