February 5, 2024

Harry Burleigh – February Composer of the Month

In the pantheon of American composers, Harry Burleigh holds a special place. As the California Conservatory of Music‘s Composer of the Month for February, we celebrate Burleigh not just for his musical genius but also for his role in shaping the American musical identity. His life and work offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of American music, blending African American folk music with classical traditions.

Early Life and Influences

Born on December 2, 1866, in Erie, Pennsylvania, Harry Thacker Burleigh was immersed in music from a young age. His mother and his grandfather, a instilled in him a deep love for spirituals. This early exposure to African American folk music would later become a cornerstone of his musical style.

Burleigh’s talent was evident early on. He possessed a rich, baritone voice that caught the attention of many and led to his acceptance at the National Conservatory of Music in New York City in 1892. This was a significant achievement, especially considering the racial barriers of the time.

Burleigh’s Career and Breakthroughs

At the National Conservatory, Burleigh encountered famous Czech composer, Antonín Dvořák. Coincidentally, Dvořák served as the school’s director at the time. This meeting proved pivotal for Burleigh’s career and inspiration. Dvořák recognized the uniqueness of African American spirituals and encouraged Burleigh to incorporate these into his compositions. Burleigh, in turn, introduced Dvořák to a wealth of African American spirituals and folk songs, which influenced Dvořák’s own work, notably his “Symphony No. 9” (From the New World).

Burleigh’s career spanned both performance and composition. As a singer, he became one of the first African Americans to sing professionally in a New York City concert venue. Additionally, he was a soloist at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Manhattan for over 50 years. His contributions to the church music repertoire are substantial and everlasting.

Music and Legacy

Burleigh’s most enduring legacy lies in his arrangements of African American spirituals. He transformed these works from simple songs into artful pieces suitable for concert stages, thus preserving an essential part of African American heritage and sharing it with wider audiences.

His arrangement of “Deep River” in 1916 is particularly notable. It was one of the first times an African American spiritual was adapted for a classical music setting. This opened the door for other composers to explore this genre! Burleigh’s work in this area was not just musical; it was a form of cultural preservation.

Apart from spirituals, Burleigh composed art songs and instrumental pieces. His “Southland Sketches,” written for violin and piano, blends African American melodies with classical forms, showcasing his unique compositional voice.

Harry Burleigh’s Influence and Recognition

Furthermore, Burleigh’s influence extended well beyond his own compositions. He was a mentor to many younger African American musicians, helping to pave the way for future generations of artists. His advocacy for African American music as a vital part of the American musical landscape helped to break down racial barriers in the arts.

Throughout his career, Burleigh received numerous honors and accolades. In 1917, he was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for his achievements as a musician and for his efforts to bring African American music to a broader audience.

A Strong Legacy

Burleigh’s life was not without challenges. He faced racial prejudice and discrimination, both personally and professionally. However, he met these challenges with dignity and grace, never allowing them to hinder his commitment to music and cultural expression.

Harry T. Burleigh passed away in 1949, but his influence resonates to this day. He was a trailblazer who not only broke racial barriers but also created a musical legacy that enriched the American cultural tapestry. His work in bringing African American spirituals to the concert stage opened doors for future generations of musicians and composers, ensuring that this vital part of American heritage would not be forgotten.

As we celebrate Burleigh this Black History Month, we are reminded of the power of music to transcend barriers, to preserve history, and to enrich the human spirit. Harry Burleigh’s life and music continue to inspire, serving as a testament to the enduring power of art to effect change and foster understanding.