The Billings Pendulum: Rethinking the Pioneering Boston Composer

This session explores the significance and legacy of pioneering American composer of sacred music, William Billings, who died 225 years ago this year. Billings tanned leather, taught singing schools, fathered a large family, and composed sacred music in Boston during the American Revolution. A staunch Whig, his music was associated with the cause of American freedom. The centerpiece of the roundtable will be a musical program, The Billings Pendulum, composed this year. Panelists will offer brief comments on the musical program and Billings's religiosity, politics, and lasting significance.