At an early age, he was admitted as a chorister of Canterbury Cathedral, under Highmore Skeats, his brother, Stephen Elvey, being then master of the boys.
[1] In 1830, Stephen Elvey having been appointed organist of New College, Oxford, George went to reside with him, and completed his musical education under his brother's guidance.
on 2 June following, his exercise being an oratorio, "The Resurrection and Ascension," afterwards performed by the Sacred Harmonic Society at Exeter Hall (12 November 1838), and subsequently at Boston, United States of America, and at Glasgow.
The funeral anthems, "The Souls of the Righteous" and "Blessed are the Dead," were both written for anniversary services in memory of the prince.
The last important public event in which he took part was the marriage of Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany at St. George's Chapel on 6 May 1882.
[1] His works, which are nearly all for the Church, include two oratorios, a great number of anthems and services, psalm chants and some pieces for the organ.
The Hymns "Come, Ye Thankful People, Come" and "Now We Sing a Harvest Song" to his tune "St George's Windsor" are also well-known staples in the liturgy.