Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1866

Death

:

1943

 

Edgar Pettman was a British composer, musicologist, and hymnologist who lived from 1866 to 1943. He was born in Exeter, Devon, England, to a family of musicians. His father, William Llewellyn Pettman, was a music teacher and organist, and his mother, Mary Ann Pettman, was a singer and pianist. Edgar showed an early interest in music and began studying the piano and organ at a young age. Pettman's musical education continued at the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied composition with Charles Villiers Stanford and organ with Walter Parratt. He also studied musicology and hymnology, which would become lifelong interests. After completing his studies, Pettman worked as a music teacher and organist in various churches and schools in England. Pettman's compositions include works for choir, organ, and piano, as well as hymn tunes and arrangements of folk songs. His style is characterized by its simplicity and clarity, with a focus on melody and harmony. He was particularly interested in the music of the English Renaissance, and his compositions often reflect this influence. One of Pettman's most famous works is his arrangement of the folk song "Londonderry Air," which he titled "Danny Boy." The song has become a beloved classic and is often performed at funerals and other solemn occasions. Pettman's other notable works include his hymn tune "St. Denio," which is often used for the hymn "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise," and his anthem "O Gladsome Light." In addition to his compositions, Pettman was also a prolific writer on music. He wrote several books on hymnology, including "The Story of the Hymns and Tunes" and "The Westminster Hymnal," as well as articles for music journals. He was also a collector of folk songs and published several collections of English and Welsh folk songs. Pettman's contributions to music were recognized during his lifetime. He was awarded an honorary doctorate of music by the University of Durham in 1927, and he was made a fellow of the Royal College of Music in 1931. He continued to compose and write on music until his death in 1943. Today, Pettman's music and writings continue to be studied and performed. His hymn tunes and arrangements of folk songs are still popular in churches and choral groups, and his books on hymnology are considered important resources for scholars and musicians. Pettman's legacy as a composer, musicologist, and hymnologist is a testament to his lifelong dedication to music and his contributions to the English musical tradition.

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