John Avery (c. 1738–1808) was a prominent English organ builder during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Based primarily in London, Avery was known for his work on significant organs, including those at King's College, Cambridge, and Winchester Cathedral. Despite his professional achievements, Avery had a colorful and tumultuous personal life. He was declared bankrupt in 1775 and again in 1801, and he was known for his excessive drinking. Avery also appeared as a witness in two trials at the Old Bailey in 1797, involving theft of his handkerchief and tools.

Although little of Avery's work survives today, notable examples include an organ at Ponsonby Baptist Church in New Zealand and another in the Finchcocks collection in Goudhurst, Kent. One of his apprentices, Alexander Buckingham, went on to collaborate with Thomas Elliot before establishing his own career as an independent organ builder. Avery's life ended in Giltspur Street Compter, highlighting the contrast between his professional accomplishments and personal struggles.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Avery_(organ_builder)