William Billings
American composer, educator, and musician
Born
October 7th, 1746
278 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1800
224 years ago — 53 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1746, an American composer and educator contributed significantly to the development of choral music in America. He is recognized as one of the first American composers to create a distinctively American musical style, synthesizing European traditions with American folk themes. Billings published a number of works, becoming a founding figure in the American choral tradition. His most famous collection, 'The New-England Psalm-Singer,' featured psalm tunes and anthems widely used in congregations. Billings also worked as a singing school master, teaching numerous students in the Boston area and influencing future generations of musicians.
Published 'The New-England Psalm-Singer'
Created influential psalm tunes and anthems
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