December 9 is the birthday of English-born American organist, harpsichordist, teacher and composer Peter Pelham (1721-1805). Pelham was born in London. His father, who was also named Peter Pelham, was an engraver and an artist. Around 1730 the Pelhams immigrated to Boston, where Peter Senior apprenticed Junior to Charles Theodore Pachelbel, son of the more famous Johann Pachelbel, composer of the popular Canon in D. In 1736, Charles left for Charleston, South Carolina and young Peter followed him. Pelham remained in Charleston for some time, studying with Pachelbel and later becoming a harpsichord teacher himself. In 1744, Pelham became first organist of Trinity Church in Boston. Around 1750, he moved to Williamsburg, Virginia, where, in 1755, he became organist of Bruton Parish Church. Pelhem held that post for almost 50 years, until 1802. He actively participated in the city's musical life, giving concerts and conducting. Pelhem also supported himself and his family by running a small music store, as well as engaging in some non-musical activities: he was supervisor for the printing of currency from 1758 to 1775 and superintended the Public Gaol (jailhouse) from 1770 to 1780. In 1802 Pelham became blind, and his daughter Elizabeth succeeded him for a brief period as organist of Bruton Church. Pelham died in Richmond, Virginia. Although several collections he compiled of music by other composers are extant, almost none of his own music survives, save for a short harpsichord minuet.
-
No comments:
Post a Comment