Peter Pelham Manuscript, 1744

Access and use

Location of collection:
Colonial Williamsburg
John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Library
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
P.O. Box 1776
Williamsburg, VA 23187
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Douglas Mayo
Phone: (757) 565-8521
Phone: (757) 565-8520
Fax: (757) 565-8528

Summary

Creator:
Pelham, Peter
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

Inscription reads that the book contains "Lessons received on the spinnet from Peter Pelham" beginning November 1744 and continuing through January 1745. Contains notes on musical terms and styles, several minuets, arias, and other songs. Includes music by Handel and Charles Theodore Pachelbel. Pelham was a student of Pachelbel.

Biographical / historical:

Peter Pelham (9 December 1721 – 28 April 1805) was an English-born American organist, harpsichordist, teacher and composer. Born in London, Pelham and his family immigrated to Boston in 1730. While there, Pelham's father apprenticed him to Charles Theodore Pachelbel, son of composer Johann Pachelbel. Pelham followed Pachelbel to Charleston in 1736, and remained there for a number of years, studying with Pachelbel and later becoming a harpsichord teacher himself. Pelham returned to Boston in 1744 to serve as the first organist of Trinity Church. In 1750 Pelham moved to Williamsburg, VA to serve as organist at Bruton Parish Church. While in Williamsburg Pelham actively participated in the city's musical life, giving concerts and conducting. Additionally, he supported himself and his family by running a small music store and being supervisor for the printing of currency from 1758 to 1775. Between 1770 and 1780 Pelham was superintendent of the Public Gaol. In 1802 Pelham became blind. He died in Richmond, Virginia. (Source: Wikipedia)

Acquisition information:
Gift, 2003
Arrangement:

Bound

Physical location:
On site.
Physical description:
1 volume (30 pages); 21 centimeters.