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Band Music in Philadelphia: Other Composers


Other composers in Philadelphia during this period include the following:

  • Francis (Frank) Johnson (1792-1844)
  • Isaac Hazzard (1804-c1864)
  • William Appo (1808-1877)
  • Aaron J. R. Connor (d. 1850)
  • James Hemmingway (1800-1849)
  • Henry F. Williams (1813-1903)

These composers, including Francis Johnson, were part of a leading group of musicians from Philadelphia who were the first generation of Black composers-the "old guard"-to compete successfully with White musicians, largely immigrants, for public patronage.

Henry F. Williams from 1881

Henry F. Williams from 1881

Eileen Southern

The Black musician has created an entirely new music-in a style peculiarly Afro-American-that today spreads its influence over the entire world. And ever since his arrival in the New World, he has enriched with his contributions the European-based musical traditions of the nation.

William C. Banfield

We got some Black Beethovens living up in here, and what's most sad is, y'all don't even know it!