William Croall (1822-1906) was the son of a wealthy family of carriage makers who in his 20s became passionate about the violin.His collection of stringed instruments was reknowned, and it included several Stradivaris.

He led a couple of orchestras in Edinburgh and formed a respected quartet which practiced at his home in Abercromby Place. James Scott Skinner dedicated the tune to Croall's quartet, and three violin makers: Amati, Stradivarius and Guarnerius.