Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

March 21, 1878 in Oskaloosa, IA

Death

:

October 9, 1963 in Boulder, CO

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Thurlow Weed Lieurance was an American composer and musician who was born on November 21, 1878, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. He was the son of a music teacher and grew up in a musical family. His father, Charles Lieurance, was a violinist and his mother, Mary Weed Lieurance, was a pianist. Thurlow showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of four. Lieurance's musical education began at home, where he received instruction from his parents. He later studied at the Chicago Musical College and the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago. He also studied with the famous composer and pianist, Percy Grainger, who had a significant influence on his musical style. Lieurance's early compositions were influenced by the Native American music he heard while growing up in Iowa. He was particularly interested in the music of the Osage tribe, which he heard during his travels in Oklahoma. He incorporated elements of this music into his compositions, which gave his music a unique and distinctive sound. One of Lieurance's most famous compositions is "By the Waters of Minnetonka," which he wrote in 1914. The piece is a beautiful and haunting melody that is often played as a tribute to Native American culture. It was inspired by the beauty of Lake Minnetonka in Minnesota, which Lieurance visited during a trip to the area. Lieurance's other notable compositions include "The Flute of the Gods," "The Song of the Flame," and "The Land of the Sky-Blue Water." These pieces are all characterized by Lieurance's use of Native American themes and melodies. In addition to his work as a composer, Lieurance was also a talented flutist. He played the flute in several orchestras and was known for his virtuosity on the instrument. He also wrote several pieces for the flute, including "Legend," which is a popular piece among flutists today. Lieurance's music was well-received during his lifetime and continues to be popular today. His unique blend of Native American themes and classical music has made him a beloved figure in American music history. He died on August 8, 1963, in Hollywood, California, at the age of 84.

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