Role

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Composer

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Vocal

 

William Harold Neidlinger was an American composer, pianist, and singer who was born on January 22, 1863, in Brooklyn, New York. He was the son of William Neidlinger, a German immigrant who was a successful businessman, and his wife, Mary. Neidlinger showed an early interest in music and began taking piano lessons at the age of six. He also sang in his church choir and performed in local concerts. Neidlinger attended the Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute and later studied music at the National Conservatory of Music in New York City. He studied piano with Rafael Joseffy and composition with Antonín Dvořák. Neidlinger was a talented pianist and gave many recitals throughout his career. He also performed as a singer and was known for his beautiful tenor voice. Neidlinger began his career as a composer in the late 1880s. He wrote many songs, including popular ballads such as "The Rosary" and "Mighty Lak' a Rose." These songs were widely performed and recorded by many famous singers of the time. Neidlinger also wrote operettas, including "The Fortune Teller" and "The Singing Girl." In addition to his work as a composer, Neidlinger was also a music educator. He taught at the National Conservatory of Music and later at the Institute of Musical Art, which later became the Juilliard School. He was a respected teacher and many of his students went on to have successful careers in music. Neidlinger's most famous work is his setting of the hymn "Abide with Me." This hymn is often sung at funerals and has become a beloved part of the Christian tradition. Neidlinger's setting of the hymn is simple and beautiful, with a haunting melody that perfectly captures the solemnity of the occasion. Neidlinger continued to compose and perform throughout his life. He died on March 1, 1924, in New York City. His legacy as a composer and educator lives on, and his music continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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