Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

January 7, 1868

Death

:

March 10, 1946

Genre

:

Choral

 

C. Austin Miles was a renowned American composer of classical music, particularly known for his contributions to the genre of Christian hymns. Born on September 7, 1868, in Lakehurst, New Jersey, Miles grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a choir director and organist, and his mother was a singer. Miles showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. Miles received his formal education in music at the Philadelphia College of Music, where he studied under the tutelage of renowned composers such as Samuel P. Warren and Hugh Archibald Clarke. After completing his studies, Miles began his career as a music teacher and organist at various churches in Philadelphia. Miles' first major success as a composer came in 1892 when he wrote the music for the popular song "List! The Cherubic Host." The song became an instant hit and was widely performed in churches across the country. This success led to Miles being appointed as the music director at the North Pennsylvania Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1905, Miles composed what would become his most famous work, the hymn "In the Garden." The hymn was inspired by a dream Miles had in which he saw himself walking with Jesus in a garden. The dream had a profound impact on Miles, and he wrote the lyrics and music for the hymn in just one day. "In the Garden" quickly became a beloved hymn and has been performed by countless artists over the years. Miles continued to compose hymns throughout his career, and many of his works became popular in churches across the country. Some of his other notable compositions include "The Old Rugged Cross," "I Will Sing of My Redeemer," and "He's the Lily of the Valley." In addition to his work as a composer, Miles was also a prolific writer and editor. He wrote several books on music theory and composition, as well as a memoir titled "My Life's Review." He also served as the editor of several music publications, including "The Choir Leader" and "The Gospel Choir." Miles' contributions to the world of classical music and Christian hymnody have had a lasting impact. His hymns continue to be performed and enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, and his legacy as a composer and educator lives on.

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