William Henry Anderson was born on 21st April, 1882 in London; and died April 12, 1955 in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

He studied voice and composition with private teachers before winning two scholarships to attend the Guildhall School of Music, London. He studied voice in Italy with Garcia and Battistini and was later tenor soloist in London at St. Stephen's Walbrooke Church and St. Paul's Cathedral.

He was a prolific composer of songs, carols and anthems. These were published in Canada, the USA, Great Britain and Australia, and have been performed all over the world. He also composed under the pseudonym of Hugh Garland.