Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

April 17, 1885

Death

:

July 28, 1980

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Cecil Burleigh was an American composer, pianist, and music educator who was born on December 16, 1885, in Brooklyn, New York. He was the son of Harry Thacker Burleigh, a renowned African-American baritone singer, and his wife, Louise Burleigh. Cecil Burleigh grew up in a musical family and was exposed to music from an early age. He showed a keen interest in music and began taking piano lessons at the age of six. Burleigh's musical talent was evident from a young age, and he quickly became a skilled pianist. He studied piano with several prominent teachers, including Rafael Joseffy and Percy Goetschius. He also studied composition with Horatio Parker at Yale University and later with Nadia Boulanger in Paris. Burleigh's early compositions were heavily influenced by the Romantic style of music, which was popular at the time. His works were characterized by lush harmonies, sweeping melodies, and a strong sense of emotion. Some of his early works include the piano pieces "Romance" and "Nocturne," as well as the song cycle "Songs of the Hills." In 1912, Burleigh became the head of the piano department at the Institute of Musical Art in New York City (now known as the Juilliard School). He held this position for over 30 years and was a highly respected music educator. He also continued to compose during this time and produced several notable works, including the opera "The Man Without a Country" and the choral work "The Nativity." Burleigh's music was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and he was often praised for his ability to blend traditional European musical styles with African-American musical traditions. He was also known for his use of spirituals in his compositions, which helped to popularize this genre of music in the classical world. One of Burleigh's most famous works is his arrangement of the spiritual "Deep River." This piece has become a staple of the choral repertoire and has been performed by countless choirs around the world. Burleigh's arrangement of "Deep River" is notable for its simple yet powerful harmonies and its use of call-and-response techniques. Another notable work by Burleigh is his "Southland Sketches" for piano. This piece is a collection of five short pieces that are inspired by the music and culture of the American South. Each piece has a distinct character and showcases Burleigh's skill as a composer and pianist. Burleigh continued to compose and teach until his death on September 1, 1980, at the age of 94. His legacy as a composer and music educator lives on, and his contributions to the world of classical music continue to be celebrated today.

More....