Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1757

Death

:

1836

Period

:

Classical

Genre

:

Choral

 

Daniel Read was an American composer of sacred music who lived during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He was born on November 16, 1757, in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, to a family of farmers. His father, also named Daniel Read, was a deacon in the local church and a self-taught musician who played the bass viol. It is likely that young Daniel learned to read music and play an instrument from his father. As a young man, Read moved to New Haven, Connecticut, where he worked as a clerk and studied music with Andrew Law, a prominent composer and singing master. Law was a proponent of the "New England singing school" tradition, which emphasized the use of shape-note notation and four-part harmony in church music. Read quickly became a skilled singer and composer in this style, and he began teaching singing schools himself. In 1785, Read published his first collection of hymns, entitled The American Singing Book. This book contained 70 hymns, many of which were his own compositions. The book was a success, and Read went on to publish several more collections of hymns and anthems over the next few decades. His most famous work is probably The American Singing Book, Part Second, which was published in 1786 and contained over 200 hymns and anthems. Read's music was characterized by its simplicity and accessibility. He wrote in a style that was easy for amateur singers to perform, but also had a certain elegance and beauty. His hymns and anthems were often based on familiar tunes or folk melodies, and he used simple harmonies and rhythms to create a sense of unity and coherence. One of Read's most famous hymns is "Sherburne," which he composed in 1785. The tune is based on a traditional English melody, and the lyrics are a paraphrase of Psalm 118. The hymn became popular throughout New England and was included in many hymnals. Another famous hymn by Read is "Windham," which he composed in 1785. The tune is based on a Scottish melody, and the lyrics are a prayer for forgiveness and salvation. Read's music was not only popular in New England but also in other parts of the United States. His hymns and anthems were sung in churches and singing schools throughout the country, and he became known as one of the most important composers of sacred music in America. In addition to his work as a composer, Read was also a singing master and teacher. He traveled throughout New England, teaching singing schools and leading choirs. He was known for his strict discipline and his ability to teach even the most inexperienced singers. Many of his students went on to become successful singing masters and composers themselves. Read died on December 4, 1836, in New Haven, Connecticut, at the age of 79. He left behind a legacy of beautiful and accessible sacred music that continues to be sung and appreciated today. His music is a testament to the power of simplicity and the importance of music in the life of the church and the community.

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