Musical Instruments in Eighteenth Century Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library Research Report Series - 120
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library
Williamsburg, Virginia
1990
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS IN EIGHTEENTH CENTURY VIRGINIA
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS IN EIGHTEENTH CENTURY VIRGINIA
CONTENTS
| Page | |
| Brief notes on Instruments, Concerts, Music in Taverns | 1-7 |
| Aeolian harps | i |
| Armonicas see Harmonicas | xv-xvi |
| Bagpipes | i |
| Banjoes | i-ia |
| Barrel Organs (Hand Organs) | ia |
| Bass Violins see Violins, Viols, etc. | xlii-lix |
| Bassoons | ii |
| Bugles | ii-iii |
| Clarinets | iii-iv |
| Clavichords | iv |
| Fiddles see Violins, etc. | xlii-lix |
| Fifes | v-vii |
| Flutes | viii-xii |
| French Horns see Horns | xxiii-xxv |
| Guitars | xiii-xiv |
| Hand Organs see Barrel Organs | ia |
| Harmonicas (Armonicas) | xv-xvi |
| Harps | xvi |
| Harpsichords | xvii-xxi |
| Hautboys, (Oboes) | xxi-xxiii |
| Horns | xxiii-xxv |
| Oboes see Hautboys | xxi-xxiii |
| Organs | xxv-xxxiv |
| Pianofortes | xxxv-xxxvi |
| Spinets | xxxvii-xl |
| Trumpets | xl-xli |
| Violins, Viols, etc. | xlii-lix |
| ADDENDA | |
| Chalumeau | iii |
| Cittern | lx |
| Drums | lx |
| Dulcimer | lx |
| Jews Harp | lx |
| Lute | lxi |
| Mandolin | lxi |
| Recorder (see also Flute) | lxi-lxii |
ILLUSTRATIONS of above — see list on following pages.
ILLUSTRATIONS
| 1. "Family Group" (by Charles Phillips, 1708-1747) | lxiii |
| 2. "Concert at Montagu House" (English — 18th century) | lxiv |
| 3. "A Family Party" (English — 18th century) | lxv |
| 4. "A Family Party" (English °18th century) | lxvi |
| 5. Instrument Maker's Shop (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | lxvii |
| 6. Aeolian Harp (Chambers' Cyclopaedia…) | lxviii |
| See also Plate 69 fig.4, page cix following | |
| 7. Bagpipes (Grove's Dictionary of Music & Musicians ) | lxix |
| 8. Bagpipe, parts of (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | lxx |
| 9. Banjo (text — Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | lxxi |
| 10. Barrel Organ or Hand Organ (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | lxxii |
| 11. Bassoon (and Oboes) (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | lxxiii |
| 12. Bassoons, parts of (Diderot's Encyclopédie… ) | lxxiv |
| 13. Bugles (illustration of "Signal Instruments" and text from Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | !xxv |
| 14. Bugles (continued from Grove's Dictionary — above) | lxxvi |
| 15. Clarinets (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | lxxvii |
| 16. Clarient, parts of (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | xxviii |
| 17. Clavichord (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | lxxix |
| 18. Clavichord (text from Encyclopaedia Britannica) | lxxix-a |
| 19. Fifes (text from Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | lxxx |
| 20. Fifes, etc. (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | lxxxi |
| 21. Flutes — "Instruments of the Flute Family" (Grove's Dict.) | xxxii |
| 22. Flutes, etc. (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | xxxiii |
| 23. Flutes, transverse, parts of (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | xxxiv |
| 24.) Flutes — Recorders (Text from Grove's Dictionary | lxxxv |
| 25. " " " " cont'd. | lxxxvi |
| 26. Guitars (Grove's Dictionary) | lxxxvii |
| See also page cxi following. plate 42. fig. 6. | |
| 27. Guitars (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | lviii |
| 28. Mrs. Benjamin Rush with Guitar (by Peale, 1776) | lxxxix |
| 29. Harmonica — Armonica (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | xc |
| 30. Harps, Irish, Welsh, etc. (Grove's Dictionary) | xci |
| 31. Harp — Pedal Harp (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | xcii |
| 32. Harpsichords (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | xciii |
| 33. Harpsichord (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | xciv |
| 34. Hautboys — Oboes (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | xcv |
| 35. Hautboy — sections (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | xcvi |
| 36. Horns, Evolution of (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | xcvii |
| 37., Horns — "Signal Instruments" (Grove's Dictionary) | xcviii |
| " Hunting Horn … (Diderot's Ency.) | xcviii-a & -b |
| 38. Organs, early (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | xcix |
| 39. Organ, Pipe 18th cent (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | c |
| 40. Pianafortes (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | ci |
| 41. Spinets (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | cii |
| 42. Trumpets (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | ciii |
| 43. Trumpet (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | civ |
| 44. Violins (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | cv |
| 45. Violins — Violas (Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | cvi |
| 46. Violins & Violas (Diderot's Encyclopédie…) | cvii |
| ILLUSTRATIONS FOR ADDENDA: | |
| 47. Cittern (text, from Grove's Dictionary of Music…). | cviii |
| For illus. see Pl.69 fig. 1, page cix. | |
| 48. "Plucked and Struck String Instruments" (Grove's Dict.) | cix |
| 49. Dulcimer (text., Grove's Dictionary of Music…) | cx |
| For illus. see Pl.69 fig.6, page cix. | |
| 50. "Instruments of the Lute Family" (Grove's Dictionary… ) | cxi |
| 51. Lute, text from Grove's Dictionary of Music… | cxii |
| 52. Lute, " " " cont'd. | cxiii |
| 53. Lute cont'd. | cxiv |
| 54. Mandolin, Mandoline (text, Grove's Dictionary…) | cxv |
| For illus. see Pl. 70, fig. 2, page cix. | |
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS IN EIGHTEENTH CENTURY VIRGINIA
Although Thomas Jefferson wrote a friend that music in this country was "in a state of deplorable barbarism" when compared to Europe, where it was "cultivated and practised by every class of men"1; it is evident from records which have survived that music was important to many Virginians of the eighteenth century.
A survey of the sources at our disposal in Williamsburg gives an idea of the musical instruments which were familiar in Virginia in the eighteenth century; and indicates those which were less familiar. Excerpts from these sources, listing the instruments in alphabetical order, are appended hereto (see pages i-lix).
VIOLINS:] The violin or fiddle was by far the most common instrument, and was played with varying degrees of proficiency by both gentlemen and servants. A tutor on a Virginia plantation wrote a friend that any young gentleman travelling through the colony was "presum'd to be acquainted with Dancing, Boxing, playing the Fiddle".2 Advertisements for runaway servants or slaves often noted that they played the fiddle well, "tolerably well," and, occasionally, "extremely well."3 Apparently, little was expected of a female performer, as the one reference to a woman violinist concerns a Venitian, who appeared in London, "whose vast execution on that instrument, so uncommon to the sex, will, it is thought, astonish every body."4
2Fiddles or violins were frequently advertised for sale by Williamsburg merchants, as were "the best Screw Bows" and "Roman Fiddle Strings."1 Most of these were imported from England. Cremona and Steiner's Violins were especially advertised.2 In 1768 a ship from Boston entered and cleared the district of Accomac, Virginia; arriving with six fiddles (probably New England made) among its cargo, and leaving with four.3 In 1768, a negro slave who "makes fiddles, and can play upon the fiddle"4 ran away from his master in Amelia County, Virginia. So it is obvious that some fiddles were made in this country. Bass viols, second violins, and the violoncello were occasionally mentioned.5
3FLUTES:] After the violin, the flute was probably the most common musical instrument to be found in Virginia — usually the German flute or Common flute.1 In 1775 Robert Carter of Nomini Hall noted in his Day Book directions for making a "Comon Concert Flute".2 The English flute was mentioned occasionally.3
OTHER INSTRUMENTS:] Hautboys, French Horns, Clarinets, Fifes (usually for military purposes), Bugles, Trumpets, Guitars, Spinets, Harpsichords, Pianofortes, and Organs were all known in the Virginia Colony; as were the less frequently mentioned banjo, harmonica, clavichord, harp, etc.4
*CONCERTS:] We find occasional references to concerts in the Virginia Colony. In 1737, at a horse-race and fair in Hanover County, the music of "Drums, Trumpets, Hautboys, &c." was provided for the entertainment of the ladies and gentlemen attending.5 In 1751, in his diary, John Blair of Williamsburg mentioned a "Fine Entert of music at Brafferton," but did not mention the instruments.6 A "Concert of Musick" was to be held on December 30, 1766, in Fredericksburg, at which "several of the best Hands in Virginia" would assist; to be composed of "3 Violins, 1 Tenor, 1 Bass, 2 Fluits, 1 Hautboy, 1 Horn, 1 Harpsichord."7 It was to start promptly at six in the evening, after which "a genteel Supper, and Liquor, suitable for such an Occasion" would be served — to be followed by a Ball. In 1768, "at the 4 particular request of several Ladies and Gentlemen," a "Concert of Instrumental Musick" was held at King-William Courthouse, to be followed by a Ball.1 In 1769, "A Concert of Instrumental Music" was presented in Hanover town "By Gentlemen of Note, for their own amusement."2 It was requested that the company maintain "a becoming silence and decorum, during the performance," which would be followed by a ball. In 1772, between acts of a puppet-show which was presented at the Theatre in Williamsburg by Mr. Gardiner, there was a concert of "instrumental music, consisting of French horns and trumpets."3 Ebenezer Hazard described a musical entertainment at the Capitol in Williamsburg in 1777, at which "A Mr Blagrave, (a Clergyman), his Lady, & a Mrs Neal performed the vocal Parts; they sang well, especially Mr Blagrave. His Lady played excellently on the Harpsichord."4 After the concert the company went upstairs to dance.
The St. Cecilia Society of Charleston, South Carolina, advertised in Virginia for musicians to play at their concerts. In 1771 that Society was in need of "a first and second Violin, two Hautboys, and a Bassoon," whom they were willing to "agree with for one, two, or three Years."5
*DANCING:] As indicated above, a concert was often followed by a ball, although there is no mention of the instruments which were used to play for the dancers. We do, however, find a few specific references to music at dances. In 1711, William Byrd described briefly an impromptu ball which was 5 held at the Capitol in Williamsburg, noting that "two fiddlers and candles were sent to the capitol,"1 where everyone danced until midnight. A young tutor at Robert Carter's plantation in Westmoreland County, Virginia, described two balls he attended. At a ball at Lee Hall on January 18, 1774, he said that they danced "first Minuets one Round; Second Giggs; third Reels; And last of All Country-Dances; tho' they struck several Marches occasionally — The Music was a French-Horn and two Violins."2 At a ball at Tappahannock, there were "25 Ladies — 40 Gentlemen … two Fidlers."3
TAVERNS:] We have little information on music in Virginia taverns, ordinaries, and public-houses; but it can be assumed that singing in eighteenth century taverns in this country was, as in London and elsewhere, the natural outgrowth of a convivial gathering. Certainly English ballads and tavern-songs were familiar in Williamsburg. Such singing needed no instrumental accompaniment; but it is probable that often a flute, fiddle, or horn added to the harmony. Some patrons doubtless brought their own instruments with them. Inventories of personal estates of several Williamsburg tavern-keepers listed musical instruments in the taverns. John Burdette, whose tavern was near the Capitol, had "1 old fiddle" among his effects at the time of his death in 1746.4 Ishmael Moody, ordinary keeper in York County, had "1 flute" in the cellar under the ordinary.5 James Shield, keeper of the English Coffee House (formerly Marot's) had "In the Barr… 1 old fiddle, 6 1 old Hautboy." Joseph Pullett, at whose tavern in Williamsburg "some of the principal Gentlemen of this City" celebrated the King's birthday in 1766, had among his furnishings "1 trumpet [valued at] 2/6 2 French horns [at £] 1:0:0."2
Mary R. M. Goodwin, 1953.
ADDENDA
In answer to several questions that have come up since I prepared this report in 1953, for the use of someone who was going to England to purchase eighteenth century musical instruments, I have added brief notes on the cittern, drums, dulcimer, Jews harp, lute, mandolin, pipe and tabor, and recorder.3 Some of these should have been included among the eighteenth century instruments in Virginia; others were obsolete in England, and not mentioned as in use in Virginia, in the sources I examined. These sources included the writings of eighteenth century Virginians (Jefferson, Washington, Madison, and others); The Virginia Historical Index compiled by Dr. E. G. Swem (an index to a number of Virginia historical publications); The Virginia Gazette Index (an index to a weekly paper published in Williamsburg, 1736-1780, which contained numerous advertisements of instruments imported and for sale in Virginia, advertisements of instrument makers and music masters, etc.); a check of other eighteenth century Virginia newspapers; our detailed index to the wills and inventories of personal estates of inhabitants of the Williamsburg and Bruton Parish portion of York County, 1633-1820, and other county court records that have been available; and Naval Officer's reports.4
Instruments that had become obsolete in England by the early eighteenth century may, of course, have been brought to Virginia by early seventeenth century 7 settlers. These may have included the dulcimer, lute, psaltry, virginal, etc., and Irish, French, and German settlers may have brought folk instruments in use in their countries when they emigrated to Virginia. However, the instruments which had become obsolete in England by the eighteenth century had probably been discarded, or were not considered worthy of note, by the eighteenth century Virginians from England and Scotland.
During the first half of the eighteenth century, most musical instruments entering Virginia came from Great Britain, whether they were made in Britain or on the Continent. Later in the century, although most merchandise entering Virginia came via Great Britain until the outbreak of the American Revolution, a few instruments came from the Northern Colonies or States; and a very few were made in Virginia.2
Mary R. H. Goodwin
December, 1974.
Footnotes
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS IN VIRGIN1A
AEOLIAN HARPS:1
[For illustration see page lxvii following.]
1766:
"Just IMPORTED, and to be SOLD [by BALFOUR & BARRAUD at their store in Norfolk] "… violins, German flutes, Eolus's harps …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 25, 1766.)
1779:
[Inventory of the estate of Alexander Purdie, printer, of Williamsburg, deceased. April 28, 1779.]
" … 1 Aeolian Harp 20/ …" (York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XXII, p. 437 etc.)
BAGPIPES:2
[For illustrations see pages lxix, lxx following.]
1771-1775
[In the William Allason Account Books (Ledger III, page 150 — Virginia State Library Archives) there is reference to William McFarlane, bagpiper to Lord Dunmore, Governor of Virginia.]
1775:
"RUN away from the Subscriber, in Bedford County, last Year, a Servant Man named DANIEL CONNOR TERELAGH; he understands playing on the Bagpipes well, and had on a new German Serge Coat, and took with him a bay Horse … MILES BARROTT." (Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Hunter, eds., September 25, 1775.)
BANJOES:3
[For further information see page lxxi following.]
1774:
[February 4.] "… This Evening, in the School-Room, which is below my Chamber, several Negroes & Ben, & Harry [sons of Robert Carter of Nomini Hall] are playing on a Banjo & dancing! —" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 83.)
1775:
[From "near Suffolk Town".] "Run away, about the last of January, a Negro Man named CHARLES, about 38 Years old … The said Negro plays exceedingly well On the Banger, and generally carries one with him. … JOHN GILES." (Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Hunter, eds., February 18, 1775.)
1780:
[from "Nansemond County"] "RUN away from the subscriber some time last September, a negro fellow named CHARLES, … 37 or 38 years old … very fond of playing on the banger… JOHN GILES." (Ibid., Dixon & Nicolson, eds., January 8, 1780.)
BARREL ORGANS2 (HAND ORGANS)3 :
[For further information see p. lxxii following.]
1767:
"Just imported from LONDON, A VERY neat HAND ORGAN, in a mahogany case, with a gilt front, which plays sixteen tunes, on two barrels; it has four stops, and every thing is in the best order. The first cost was 16 £ sterling, and the Lady being dead it came in for, any person inclining to purchase it may have it on very reasonable terms. Inquire at the Post Office, Williamsburg." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., Sept. 17, 1767.)
1770:
"To be SOLD at private sale, at William McCaa's office in Norfolk … An universal compound microscope… A very genteel barrel organ. … " (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., January 18, 1770.)
BASSOONS:1
[For illustrations see pages; lxxiii, lxxiv following.]
1771:
"CHARLESTOWN, South Carolina, April 11, 1771.
"THE ST. CECILIA SOCIETY give Notice, that they will engage with, and give suitable Encouragement to, MUSICIANS properly qualified to perform at their CONCERT, … The Performers they are in Want of are, a first and second Violin, two Hautboys, and a Bassoon, whom they are willing to agree with for one, two, or three Years. JOHN GORDON, President …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds,. July 18, 1771.)
1778:
[Thomas Jefferson to friend in Europe — unnamed. June. 8. 1778.]
…
"If there is a gratification which I envy any people in this world it is to your country its music. … fortune has cast my lot in a country where it is in a state of deplorable barbarism. … I retain for instance among my domestic servants a gardener …, weaver …, a cabinet maker, … and a stone-cutter … to which I would add a Vigneron. In a country where, like yours, music is cultivated and practised by every class of men, I suppose there might be found persons of those trades who could perform on the French horn, clarinet or hautboy and bassoon, so that one might have a band of two French horns, two clarinets and hautboys and a bassoon, without enlarging their domest[ic] expences. … Without meaning to give you trouble, perhaps it mig[ht] be practicable for you in your ordinary intercourse with your pe[ople] to find out such men disposed to come to America. Sobriety and good nature would be desireable parts of their characters. …" (Boyd, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Vol. II, pages 195-196.)
1781:
[Colonel John Taylor to Governor Thomas Nelson, June 19, 1781.]
"The General [Spotswood] also wants … two French horns first and second, four clarionets, one Bassoon and one 'Houtboy,' as necessary to the 'harmony and discipline' of the corps. …" (Calendar of Virginia State Papers. Vol. 2, Richmond: 1881, p. 175.)
BUGLES:2
[For further information see pages: lxxv, lxxvi following.]
1702:
[Account of ceremonies at William & Mary College in May, 1702, proclaiming the death of King William III and the accession of Queen Anne — by Francis Louis Michel, a Swiss traveller.]
"… the college has three balconies. On the uppermost were the buglers from the warships, on the second, oboes and on the lowest violinists, so that when the ones stopped the others began. Sometimes they all played together. When the proclamation of the King's death was to be made they played very movingly and mournfully …" (Virginia Magazine of History & Biography, Vol. 24, page 126.)
1767:
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S store, in WILLIAMSBURG, … … bugles, Roman strings and long fiddle sticks, …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds. June 4, 1767.)
"Sold at JOHN GREENHOW'S store … in WILLIAMSBURG, … … bugles, toys… Roman fiddle strings…" (Ibid., December 3, 1767.)
1768:
"SOLD… at JOHN GREENHOW'S store, WILLIAMSBURG, … … fiddles … bugle horns tipt and plain …" (Ibid., October 20, 1768.)
1769:
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S store … in WILLIAMSBURG … … hunting horns,… fiddles, … earthenware, bugles and necklaces, [in this case, possibly beads rather than horns]. … (Ibid., September 28, 1769.)
1782:
[Letter of Capt. E. Read to Governor Harrison of Virginia, February 7, 1782. Abstract.]
"… I'm inf'd there is some Bugel Horns, stored with the Q. M. taken at York. we are much in want of them for use of the Coar, …" (Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. 3, Richmond: 1883, page 55.)
1791:
"Return of Ordnance and ordnance stores at Manchester, Va., belonging to the United States. [June 6, 1791] … bugle horns, French horns, &c. &c." (Ibid., Vol. 5, page 322.)
1792:
[An Act for regulating the militia of this Commonwealth. Passed December 22, 1792.]
"… The commanding officers of regiments shall … also procure… for each company in his regiment, a drum and fife, or bugle-horn, …" (William Waller Hening, The Statutes at Large, Vol. 13, page 349.)
CHALUMEAU: see CLARINET.
[According to Grove's Dictionary of Music and Musicians, this instrument became obsolete in the 18th century, and was succeeded by the clarinet; and no music was written for the chalumeau after 1700 except in Germany, where the chalumeau was not replaced in music by the clarinet until about 1730. (See Vol. II, page 152.) I have found no reference to the chalumeau in the eighteenth century Virginia sources I examined.]
CLARINETS:1
[For illustrations see pages lxxvii, lxxviii following.]
*1778
1781:
[Colonel John Taylor to Governor Thomas Nelson, from Staunton, June 19, 1781]
"… The General [Spotswood] also wants … — two French horns first and second, four clarionets, one Bassoon and one 'Houtboy,' as necessary to the 'harmony and discipline' of the corps. …" (Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. 2, Richmond: 1881, page 175.)
1795:
[From "The Herald and Norfolk and Portsmouth Advertiser," for May 9, 1795.]
"The Subscriber has just received and offers for sale the following articles in The Musical Line … violins, guitars, clarinets, and Piano Fortes, … B. Francis." (The Lower Norfolk County Antiquary, Vol. IV, 1904, page 107.)
CLAVICHORDS:2
[For illustration see page lxxix, lxxix-a following.]
1771:
[Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Adams, in London, "Monticello. June 1. 1771."]
"Dear Sir
As it was somewhat doubtful when you left the country how far my little invoice delivered you might be complied with till we should know the fate of the association, I desired you to withhold purchasing the things till you should hear further from me.
… I wrote therein for a Clavichord. I have since seen a Forte-piano and am charmed with it. Send me this instrument then instead of the Clavichord. …" (Julian P. Boyd, ed., The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Vol. I, Princeton: 1950, page 71.)
FIFES:1
[For further information see pages lxxx and lxxxi following.]
1771:
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S Store… in Williamsburg… … German Flutes and Fifes, …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., April 11, 1771.)
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S Store… in Williamsburg… … German Flutes and Fifes, …" (Ibid., December 12, 1771.)
1775:
"ALEXANDRIA, June 12, 1775.
THE Subscribers would willingly learn any Number of Boys the MILITARY MUSICK of the FIFE and DRUM; and also supply any Persons with Musick for said Instruments. … Our Terms are half a Guinea Entrance, and a Guinea per Month for each Instrument. THOMAS STERLING. THOMAS HOOKINS."
(Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., June 17, 1775 — Sup.)
"A few REGIMENTAL FIFES For Sale. Price two Dollars." (Ibid., July 29, 1775.)
[An ordinance for raising… a sufficient force, for the defence… of this colony. July, 1775.]
—
(Hening, The Statutes at Large, Vol. IX, Richmond: 1821, page 31.)
And be it farther ordained, That the captain of each company shall and may appoint one drummer and one fifer, … and the said captains shall provide drums, fifes, colours, and halberds, at the publick expense, … "
"WANTED, A PERSON who can play upon the FIFE. Such a one who can play the field duty will meet with great encouragement by applying to Warner Lewis, esq; in Gloucester, to Thomas Davis, adjutant, or the printer. (Virginia Gazette, Purdie, ed., August 11, 1775.)
"WANTED to the battalion of minute-men in the lower end of the Northern Neck, an ADJUTANT… Also wanted, a DRUMMER and FIFER, who can teach others the duty, to act as drum and fife majors… "(Ibid., Pinkney, ed., September 28, 1775.) vi
"Wanted immediately, AN ADJUTANT to the minute battalion of Southampton district, also a person who understands the FIFE and beating of the DRUM to perfection.…" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie, ed., November 10, 1775.)
1776
[Journal of the Committee of Safety, Williamsburg, May 7, 1776]
"… Same, [a warrant]… for use [of] Joseph Moore for £ 3:1:0 for halberts, fifes, and staffs to his company of militia in Charlotte."
(Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. VIII, 1890, page 171.)
[Wi1liamsburg, June 8, 1776.]
"… A warrant to Jos. Clapham for £ 82:18:1½ for Drums and Fifes furnished the London Militia…"
(Ibid., Vol. VIII, page 192.)
[Williamsburg, June 10, 1776.]
"… and six shillings for a Fife furnished Captain Morton, his militia Company."
(Ibid., Vol. VIII, page 196.)
"For SALE, … Watt's hymns and psalms, psalters, histories, pocket-books, cuteaus, fifes, common sleeve buttons… Gloucester, August 15, 1776. MATTHEW ANDERSON." (Virginia Gazette, Purdie, ed., August 16, 1776.) (Also in Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., August 24, 1776.)
1777:
[An act for regulating the Militia. May 1777.]
"… Each captain shall appoint a drummer and fifer to his company, and also shall provide a drum, fife, and colours for the same, at the publick expense… "
(Hening, Statutes at Large, Vol. IX, 1821, page 270.)
[Virginia Militia in the Revolution.]
1777. "Nov'r 3d. Jordan, Capt. Edw'd, for a fife for Lunenburg Militia, 0.18.0. …"
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. X, 1903, page 83.)
1778:
"Head Quarters March 22. 1778. …
A Return of Drums & Fifes wanting in each Brigade to be given to the Adjutant General tomorrow at Orderly time. … " (Ibid., Vol. XV, 1908, page 50.)
1779:
August 5th. "'Return' of the 7th Regt of Foot, Commdd, by Colo Daniel Morgan — Strength 316 Rank & File with 'nine drums & Fifes,' …" (Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. I, 1875, page 324.)
1782:
May 18th. "Capt: Pryor sends 'Mr. Haynes' at Col: Dabney's request, to procure the necessary articles for 'making drums and fifes' (he having frequently made them before,)…" (Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. III, 1883, page 168.)
1784:
[Act amending act for regulating the Militia — October, 1784.]
"… The lieutenant… shall cause to be purchased … also a drum and fife for each company; …"
(Hening, Statutes at Large, Vol. XI, 1823, page 485.)
1787:
[Letter from Arthur Campbell, etc. to Governor Randolph, December 31, 1787, concerning two companies of Rangers to protect the frontiers from the Indians.]
"… A stand of Colours, Drum and Fife, would be useful for each Company."
(Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. IV, 1884, page 376.)
1792:
(Hening, Statutes at Large, Vol. XIII, 1823, page 349.)[An act for regulating the militia of this Commonwealth. 1792.]
"… The commanding officers of regiments shall cause to be purchased … a drum and fife, or bugle-horn, …"
1794:
[Letter of Thomas Newton to the Governor. Norfolk, June 15, 1794.]
"… Capt. Hannah is here; he brought only four men, & has enlisted 4 more, & I think will recruit fast. He has neither drum or fife to spirit the business."
(Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. VII, 1888, page 183.)
1795:
[From "The Herald and Norfolk and Portsmouth Advertiser," May 9, 1795.]
"The Subscriber has just received and offers for sale the following articles in The Musical Line … Fifes, English and German Flutes, … B. Francis."
(The Lower Norfolk County Antiquary, Vol. IV, 1904, page 107.)
FLUTES:1
[For further information see pages lxxxii - lxxxvi following.]*
1737:
[Inventory of estate of Benjamin Moss, York County, Sept. 19, 1737.]
"… 1 flute and fiddle — — — 6:15:0"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book 18, p. 399.)
1739:
[Inventory of the estate of Robert Davidson, March 17, 1739.]
"… In the Chamber … 1 Flute — — —8/ … "
(Ibid., Wills, Inventories, Book 18, pages 587-8.)
1743:
[Inventory of personal estate of Henry Fitzhugh of Stafford County, recorded March 2, 1742/3.]
"… a case containing a German and an English flute with an '8 do 12,' …"
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. II, 1895, page 278.)
1748:
[Inventory of estate of Ishmael Moody, ordinary keeper, Jan. 16, 1748.]
"… In the cellar under the ordinary. … 1 flute, … "
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XX, pages 134-38.)
1751:
[Diary of John Blair of Williamsburg]
[Jan. 1751] "17. Clear & very warm, had compy. Mr J. R. play'd on his Violin & Dr. Hackerston on his G flute."
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st ser., Vol. VII, 1898, page 135.)
1754:
[Inventory of estate of John Waller — recorded in Spotsylvania County, October 1, 1754, listed:]
"… a hautboy valued at 10 shillings, a flute 5 shillings, a fiddle and case 25 shillings… "
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. IV, 1897, page 359.)
1760:
[Inventory of estate of George Hume of Culpeper County, recorded July 17, 1760]
"… 2 small rundlets 2/- A parcel of Books & flute — — £ 0 12 0."
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXXVIII, 1930, page 299.)
1766:
"Just IMPORTED, and to be sold [by BALFOUR & BARRAUD in Norfolk] … violins, German flutes, … " (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 25, 1766.)
"ON the thirtieth of December, 1766, will be a CONCERT in Fredericksburg… which will be composed as follows viz.
3 Violins, 1 Tenor, 1 Bass, 2 Fluits, 1 Hautboy, 1 Horn, 1 Harpsichord. …" (Ibid., Rind, ed., December 11, 1766.)
1768:
[Notice of arrival of Justitia with "about 120 healthy SERVANTS," many of them tradesmen.]
"N. B. There is one of the servants who plays well on the French horn, flute, and other instruments." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., December 22, 1768.)
1770:
"…to be SOLD at the POST OFFICE in Williamsburg. … … Instructions for the violin and flute, … German and common flutes, of different sizes. …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., November 29, 1770.)
"A Catalogue of BOOKS, &c to be SOLD at the POST OFFICE in Williamsburg.
… Instructions for the Violin & Flute… German and Common Flutes, of different Sizes. … " (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., December 13, 1770; also in January 3, 1771 issue.)
1771:
"SOLD at John Greenhow's Store … in Williamsburg… … German Flutes and Fifes, …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., April 11, 1771.)
"FRANCIS RUSSWORM, BEGS Leave
to acquaint the young Gentlemen in and about Williamsburg that he shall open School on Monday the 3d of June, at Mr. Singleton's House, to teach the VIOLIN, GERMAN and COMMON FLUTES …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 16, 1771.)
WILLIAM ATTWOOD BEGS Leavex
to inform the Gentlemen of Williamsburg that he teaches the French HORN, HAUTBOY, and German FLUTE; and has, for that purpose, rented a Room near the College. …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 23, 1771.)
" LOST, Either in YORK, or in its neighborhood, THE top part of a GERMAN FLUTE, tipped with ivory, having POTTER, the maker's name, on it. It can be of no service to any person, without the other parts. Whoever finds it, is desired to send or bring it to the printer hereof, who will direct him where to find a reward." (Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., July 18, 1771.)
"… PURDIE and DIXON have imported … German Flutes (some of a new Construction) Violins, … Instructions for the Harpsichord, Violin, and German Flute; … " (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., August 29, 1771.)
"… To be SOLD at John Greenhow's Store … in Williamsburg… … Hunting Horns … F1ddles and Roman Strings, German Flutes and Fifes… (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, December 12, 1771.)
1772:
"… to be sold at the Post Office, Williamsburg … … Ivory and other German Flutes, some of a new Construction. …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., September 17, 1772.)
1773:
" … To be SOLD at the PRINTING OFFICE, Williamsburg … … German Flutes and Violins…" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., June 10, 1773.)
[Dec. 13, 1773] "… he [Robert Carter of Nomini Hall] has here at Home a Harpsichord… Guittar, Violin, & German Flutes… " (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 39.)
1774
[January 7, 1774] "… The Colonel [Robert Carter] told me last Evening that he proposes to make the vacant End of our SchoolÂRoom… a Concert-Room, to hold all his instruments of Music — As he proposes to bring up from Williamsburg his Organ, & to remove the Harpsichord, Harmonica, Forte-piano, Guittar, Violin & German Flutes, & make it a place for Practice, as well as Entertainment." (Ibid., page 68.)
[Inventory of estate of Charles Taylor of Southampton County, January 13, 1774, listed "a flute, a violin." (Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXIII, 1915, page 218.)xi
[February 24, 177r] "The Colonel [Robert Carter of Nomini Hall] at Dinner gave Ben & I a Piece of Music to prepare on our Flutes, in which he is to perform the thorough Bass — …"
[March 18, 1774] "… In the Evening Mr Carter sent for Ben & I to play over the Sonata which we have lately learn'd; we performed it, & had not only Mr Stadleys Approbation, but his praise; he did me the honour to say that 'I play a good Flute.' He took a Flute also and play'd; which put me in mind, at once, of the speech of the Shepherd in virgil… For when compared to him, the best Ben or I can do, is like Crows among Nightingales — We play'd till ten… " [October 7, 1774] "… Evening I am troubled with a drunken Carpenter; he saw a Light in my Chamber — up he bouzes, with a Bottle of Rum in his hand; …My Flute was lying on the Table. he took it for a Trumpet & tooted in [sic] for two or three Minutes… " [October 18, 177r] "… After Dinner with Mr Lowe on the violin, I play'd over many tunes on the Flute, he plays with good Taste and accuracy — … " (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, pages 90, 110, 265, 270.)
1775:
[Directions for making a "Comon Concert Flute — the whole length, when the Pieces are joined, is 20 Inches." … Directions follow.] See page xi-a for directions. (See Robert Carter Day Book, Vol. XIII, pages 89-91., Mss. Duke University Library. Copy — Research Dept., CWI)
1777:
"The Subscriber… has opened a Store opposite Mr. John Greenhow's, near the Market Square … to sell all Kinds of European Goods … … German Flute, Guitar, … ANN NEILL." (Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Hunter, November 14, 1777.)
1778:
"YORK TOWN, January 15, 1778.
On Wednesday the 4th of February will be exposed to sale at my house in this place…sundry household and kitchen furniture, amongst which are … a good fiddle, … German flute, … G. RIDDELL." (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., January 23, 1778.)
1786:
[Robert Carter's instructions to Mr. Randell, who is being sent to Baltimore on several errands] "Nomony Hall 10 May 1786" "… Enquire what such flutes will fetch & what will be given for a fine Stainer Fiddle." (Robert Carter Letter-Book, Vol. VII, pages 95-96. Mss. Duke University Library, Copy Research Dept., CWI)
1775:
Comon Concert Flute — the whole length, when the Peices are joined, is 20 Inches —
Smallest Scale
1st peice
- 3 parts 2/10 & 4th line, the diameter of the Bore where the Plug enters —
- 3 parts 2/10 & 1 line, the diameter of the Bore smallest end
2d peice
- 3 parts 2/10 & 1 line, the diameter of the Bore, largest end
- 2 parts 2/10 the diameter of the Bore, smallest end
3d peice
- 2 parts 2/10, the diameter of the Bore, larger End
- 1 part 7/10, the diameter of the Bore smallest end—
- 9 parts 8/10 & 5 lines, is the length of the Plug
Comon Scale
- The whole length of the 1st Peice, is 7 Inches & 1/10
- The whole length of the 2d Do 9 do & 9/10
- (Note, the end, wch enters the first Peice, is 1 1/10 of an Inch, — the end wch enters the 3d Peice is 6/10 of Inch)
- The whole length of the 3d Peice — 4 Inches 1/10 & half —
- (The Aperture thro' wch ye breath of ye Player passes, is 1 Inch long, ½ an Inch wide and 2/8 diameter)
- (That part taken between the Lips, has a hole 1/8 of an Inch by 5/8, two 10th parts & half a 10th of an Inch diameter —)
In the 2 peice there are 7 holes, 6 of wch on ye upper side, the other on the under side, these holes are 2/10 and half a 10th of an Inch diameter & are placed thus —
[rest of page blank — almost whole page]
(See Robert Carter Day Book, Vol. XIII, pages 89-91., Mss. Duke University Library. Copy — Research Department CWI.)
1788:
[Robert Carter to John Victor, musician, "Nomony Hall," September 5, 1788.]
"…I take the Liberty also to deliver to you one Concert German Flute, having 3 Middle peices and mounted with Silver, which you will dispose of — if any purchaser shod apply to you — I have no remembrance of the price, for I imported that wth several other flutes and the shop Note is now Mislaid — However I would agree to take 2 Guineas …"
(Robert Carter Letter-Book, Vol. VIII, page 185. Mss Duke University Library, Copy Research Dept., CWl)
1795:
[From "The Herald and Norfolk and Portsmouth Advertiser," for May 9, 1795]
"The Subscriber has just received and offers for sale the following articles in The Musical Line … Fifes, English and German Flutes…"
(The Lower Norfolk County Antiquary, Vol. IV, 1904, page 107.)
GUITARS:1
[For illustrations see pages lxxxvii - lxxxix following.]
1773:
[Dec. 10] "Miss Nancy [Carter] is beginning on the Guitar. …
[Dec. 13] "… Mr Carter [Robert Carter of Nomini Hall] is practising this Evening on the Guittar He begins with the Trumpet Minuet. He has a good Ear for Music… and keeps good Instruments, he has here at Home a Harpsichord, Forte-Piano, Harmonica, Guittar, Violin, & German Flutes, …"
1774:
[Jan. 15, 1774] "… I spent some hours to Day with the Girls when they were practising Music on the Guitar, & Forte-piano, …" [March 17] "… Nancy [Carter] learns the Guitar under the direction of her Papa, as Mr Stadley [music teacher] does not understand playing on the Guitar. …" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, pages 37, 39, 74, 105. See also Ibid., pages 66, 68, 94, 174, 175, 282.)
1775:
"WILLIAMSBURG, March 29, 1775.
LADIES who are inclined to learn the GUITTAR may be instructed on that instrument by a lady lately arrived. Inquire of the printer."
(Virginia Gazette, Pinkney, ed., March 30, 1775.)
"Williamsburg, April 1, 1775.
LADIES who are inclined to learn the GUITTAR may be instructed on that Instrument by a Lady lately arrived. —
(Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., April 15, 1775.)
Inquire of the Printers hereof."
"To be SOLD by the subscriber, at her STORE in Williamsburg, … a second hand guittar, childrens stays and sashes…
C. RATHELL." (Ibid., Pinkney, ed., April 20, 1775. Also Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., April 22, 1775.)
1776:
[Letter from W. Aylett "Phila Aug 20, 1776" to William Armistead, at Williamsburg,]
"… my Comps. to … particularly my worthy friend Hble. B. D. let him know I have got a Guitar for Miss Nancy but the other articles she disired are either not to be had or so extreamly high that I shall not get them."
(Tyler's Quarterly Historical Magazine, Vol. I, 1920, page 92.)
"MRS. NEILL (who for a considerable Time past, has lived in Colonel Lewis's Family, Gloucester County) purposes to open a Boarding School in Williamsburg for the Reception of young Ladies, on the same Plan as the English Schools, provided a sufficient Number of Scholars engage… She will also teach the Guitar. …" (Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Hunter, December 20, 1776.)
1777:
"PALACE Street, July 2, 1777.
"MRS. NEILL is now in Williamsburg, where she purposes teaching the GUITAR at one Guinea Entrance, and one Guinea for eight Lessons. She will also instruct young Ladies in Reading, and Needle Work, in the Mornings… "
(Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., July 4, 1777.)
[Estate of James Davenport, decd. offered for sale in Westmoreland County. Among articles listed:] "… a spinet, a guitar…" (Ibid., Purdie, ed., October 17, 1777.)
"The Subscriber… has opened a Store opposite Mr. John Greenhow's, near the Market Square…to sell all Kinds of European Goods … … German Flute, Guitar, …" (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., November 14, 1777.)
1783:
[Inventory of estate of Capt. John Harris of York County, November, 1783.]
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book 23, page 69.)
"1 guitar case etc. 2: 0: 0 1 fiddle without a case 2 :10:0"
1788:
[Robert Carter of Nomini Hall to John Victor, musician, Sept. 5, 1788;]
"Sir/ There is no person in this Neighbourhood who I think can repair musical instruments. therefore I beg the favr of you to receive one belonging to me, and employ some person to repair the same. And whatever you may think reasonable I will pay it — and after the Guittar is rendered Serviceable you will be pleased to recommend it as far as it deserves and Sell the same for whatever you may think it worth. … "
(Robert Carter Letter-Book, Vol. VIII, page 185. Mss. Duke University Library. Copy Research Dept. CWI)
1792:
[Letter, not directed, from Robert Carter "Nomony Hall 14th April 1792."]
"…Julia [Carter] & her Sister Sophia were much improved during their stay in Baltimore, so that I now direct, that, there shall be a continuation of the same Teachers with one alteration only, that, Julia be taught to play upon the Guittar, & to be taught Psalmody by Gammut, so as realy to understand the Fundamentals of Music, & that she may sing and play the different parts, namely, Base, Tenor & Treble, …"
(Ibid., Letter-Book Vol. IX, pages 311-313. Copy Research Dept. CWl)
[Robert Carter, Baltimore, June 28, 1792, to his son George Carter, in Philadelphia.]
"Some late improvements have been made on the Guittar, make enquire of the persons who play on that Instrument & know whether the alteration is a real improvement; and if the Guittar with the late alteration should be recommended then purchase one of said Guittars & send it to your Sister Julia Carter…"
(Ibid., Letter-Book IX, pages 330-331.)
1795:
[From "The Herald and Norfolk and Portsmouth Advertiser," for May 9, 1795.]
"The Subscriber has just received and offers for sale the following articles in The Musical Line … violins, guitars, clarinets …" (The Lower Norfolk County Antiquary. Vol. IV, 1904, page 107.)
HAND ORGANS:
See BARREL ORGANS, page i-a.
HARMONICAS:1
[For further information see page xc following.]
1765:
[From George Washington Account Books, Ledger A.]
"May 2 [1765], Thursday. Williamsburg.
(John C. Fitzpatrick, George Washington Colonial Traveller, Indianapolis, 1927, page 186.)
'By my Exps. to Williamsburg £ 1.3.0. By my Do. to hear the Armonica 3/9.'"
1773:
[December 13, 1773] "… He [Robert Carter of Nomini Hall] has a good Ear for Music; a vastly delicate Taste: and keeps good Instruments, he has here at Home a Harpsichord, Forte-Piano, Harmonica, * … "
*[fn] "Carter described the harmonica as 'the musical glasses without water, framed into a complete instrument, capable of through [sic] bass and never out of tune.'" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 39; also page 68.)
[December 22] "… Evening Mr Carter spent in playing on the Harmonica; It is the first time I have heard the Instrument. The music is Charming! He play'd, Water parted from the Sea! [Arne's Artaxerses] — The Notes are clear and inÂexpressibly Soft, they swell, and are inexpressibly grand; & either it is because the sounds are new, and therefore please me, or it is the most captivating Instrument I have Ever heard. The sounds very much resemble the human voice, and in my opinion they far exceed even the swelling Organ." (Ibid., page 49.)
1774:
[August 12, 1774] "…Mr Stadley, [music teacher] played on the Harpsichord & harmonica several Church Tunes & Anthems, with great propriety." [August 29, 1744] "…Evening after Coffee the Colonel [Robert Carter] entertained us by playing on the Harmonica." (Ibid., pages 208, 237.)
1785:
[Letter from Robert Carter to Mr. Hill, wine merchant in Philadelphia.]
"Virginia Westmorld Coty
(Robert Carter Letter-Book. No. VI, page 157. Mss. Duke University Library, Copy Research Dept., CWI)
18 May 1785
"Sir In the year 1772 at Wmsburgh I put into your hands £ 4:12:0 Currt Money of Virginia to procure and send to me a parcel of Earthen Bowls, they to be made after the manner of Glass bowles Hung on an iron Spindle making a musical instrument Called Harmonica. I have not received any bowles, or any thing what ever for the sum mentioned above … "
HARPS:1
[For illustrations see pages xci, xcii following.]
1755:
To be seen and heard, at the Exchange Tavern, Norfolk, That elaborate and celebrated Piece of Mechanism, called the MICROCOSM; or, the WORLD IN MINIATURE.
BUILT in the Form of a Roman Temple, after 22 Years of close Study and Application, by the late ingenious Mr. Henry Bridges, of London; …Its outward Structure is a most beautiful Composition of Architecture … The inward Contents are as judiciously adapted to gratify the Ear, the Eye, and the Understanding; for it plays with great Exactness several fine Pieces of Music, and exhibits an amazing Variety of moving Figures …
The First …
Secondly, are the Nine Muses playing in Concert on divers musical Instruments, as the Harp, Hautboy, Bass Viol &c.
Note: this was shown in Williamsburg also.
(Virginia Gazette, Hunter, ed., August 29, 1755.)
1795:
[Notice in "The Herald and Norfolk and Portsmouth Advertiser," for May 9, 1795"; "A Pedal Harp, and New Music to be disposed of." (The Lower Norfolk County Antiquary, Vol. IV, 1904, page 107.)
HARPSICHORDS:1
[For illustrations see pages xciii, xciv following.]
1751:
[Diary of John Blair of Williamsburg, 1751:7 Sept. 9, 1751.]
"Dined at Col. Hunters & heard Harpsicord."
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series, Vol. VII (1899) p. 145.)
1755:
"The Subscriber, living at Mr. Nicholson's in Williamsburg, proposes to teach Gentlemen and Ladies to play the Organ, Harpsichord, or Spinnett; and to instruct those Gentlemen that play on other Instruments, so as to enable them to play in Concert. … Cuthbert Ogle." (Virginia Gazette, Wm. Hunter, ed., March 28, 1755.)
[Appraisement of the Estate of Mr. Cuthbert Ogle, dec'd., April 23, 1755.]
"a Fiddle & Case 21/6 Harpsichord & 2 Hammers Sterlg £ 22.11.6 … " [Settlement of estate of Cuthbert Ogle — May 19, 1755.]
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XX, pages 373, 389.)
"CR By sale of a Harpsichord £ 24:14:6 By a Fiddle & Case 40/6 Musick Books £ 6:12/ 8:12:6"
1758:
[Letter of Richard Corbin, April 26, 1758, to Robert Dinwiddie, former Lieut. Governor of Virginia, concerning furniture he had left in Virginia.]
"… Mr. Grymes will not be concerned with the Harpsecord so I have desired Col. Hunter to make sale for it with the other goods."
(Richard Corbin Letter Book, 1758-1768, page 11. Mss. Virginia Historical Society.)
1766:
[Notice of concert at Fredericksburg on December 30, 1766, to consist of:]
"3 Violins, 1 Tenor, 1 Bass, 2 F1uits, 1 Hautboy, 1 Horn, 1 Harpsichord."
(Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., December 11, 1766.)
1767:
[Notice that Bucktrout is taking over Anthony Hay's cabinetÂmaking business in Williamsburg.]
"…N.B. SPINETS and HARPSICHORDS made and repaired.
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."
"To be SOLD for prime cost, A COMPLETE HARPSICORD, with three stops, just imported from London, made by Kirkman, the Queen's instrument maker, and supposed by good judges to be the best in the colony. Inquire of the Printer." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., August 6, 1767.)
1768:
(Ibid., Rind, ed., November 3, 1768, also in Purdie & Dixon, eds., Nov. 10, 1768.)[Following the notice of William Pasteur for drugs, etc.]
"P. S. There is at my house a double keyed HARPSICHORD, imported lately by a young Lady, made by the Queen's instrument maker, and supposed to be the best in the colony. It is to be disposed of under prime cost. W. P."
1769:
[Poem in Virginia Gazette, "When Sukey to her harpsichord repairs, …" See Mary Newton Stanard, Colonial Virginia, page 310.]
1770:
["Invoice of Goods sent for to John Norton Esqr. & Son," for Mann Page, February 15, 1770.]
"…10 oz. Wire for a Harpsicord from No.3 to No. 13."
(Francis N. Mason, John Norton & Sons…, page 126.)
1772:
xix[Inventory of Estate of Armistead Lightfoot — 1772.]
"…1 Harpsichord £10 …"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Vol. XXII, p. 124.)
[Account of Robert Carter of Nomini Hall with Benjamin Bucktrout, Cabinetmaker of Williamsburg, June 15, 1772.]
"By mending a Musick Stand - - - 0:1:6
(Account Books of Robert Carter, 1759-1779. Mss. Library of Congress.)
By a Case & packing my Harpsichord…"
1773:
[Dec. 1, 1773] "…the eldest daughter of Robert Carter of Nomini Hall is turned of fifteen… she is employed two days in every week in learning to play the ForteÂPiana, and Harpsicord…"
[Dec. 13, 1773] "… he [Robert Carter] has here at Home a Harpsichord, Forte-Piano, Harmonica, Guittar, Violin, & German Flutes, …"
[Dec. 31, 1773] "… The Colonel [Robert Carter] shewed me after Dinner a new invention, which is to be sure his own, for tuning his Harpsichord & Forte-Piano: it is a number of Whistles, of various Sizes so as to sound all the Notes in one Octave."
1774:
[Jan. 7, 1774] "… The Colonel told me last Evening that he proposes to make the vacant End of our School-Room… a Concert-Room… As he proposes to bring up from Williamsburg his Organ, & to remove the Harpsichord, Harmonica, Forte-piano, Guittar, Violin, & German Flutes, & make it a place for Practice, as well as Entertainment." [April 7, l774] "…The young Ladies [at Mr. Airy] played several tunes for us, & in good Taste on the Harpsichord; …" [April 8, 1774] "The Ladies before breakfast gave us several tunes on the Harpsichord…" [June 2, l774, "… Evening Mr Carter at the Harpsichord. …" [June 15, l774] "…Mr Stadley [music teacher] spent the evening in playing several songs & Sonata's on the Harpsichord & Violin- … " [June 24, l774] "…She [Miss Jenny Washington] plays well on the Harpsichord, & Spinet, … most of the Virginia-Girls think it labour quite sufficient to thump the Keys of the Harpsichord into the air of a tune mechanically…" [Aug. 3, l774] — at Hobb's Hole "… After Breakfast the young Ladies favoured us with several Tunes on the Harpsichord— They all play & most of them in good Taste…" [Aug. 7, 1774] "… Towards Evening Miss Betsy Carter… of Richmond… came over to see our Girls. Miss Betsy plays the Harpsichord extremely well, better I think than any young Lady I have seen in Virginia.… " (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian: 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, pages 34, 39, 5B, 6B, 127, 149, 160, 163, 204, 206.)
1775:
[Estimate of Losses sustained by the Earl of Dunmore (late Governor of the Colony) in Virginia. Dunmore left the Palace at Williamsburg in 1775.]
"In the Palace at Williamsburg. … 3 Organs, a Harpsichord, a Piano-Forte, and other Musical Instruments."
(Public Records Office, London. Audit Office 13-Bundle 28. Photostat Research Dept.)
1777:
"AN HARPSICHORD for Sale. Inquire of the Printers." (Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Hunter, eds., April 11, 1777.)
[June 5, 1777. Description of a concert and ball at the Capitol in Williamsburg.]
"…A Mr Blagrave (a Clergyman) his Lady, & a Mrs Neal, performed the vocal Parts; they sang well… His [Mr. Blagrave's] Lady played excellently on the Harpsichord. …"
(Journal of Ebenezer Hazard 1777-1778 Ms. Pennsylvania, Historical Society. Photostat — Research Dept. CWI)
1778:
[Letter from Robert Carter, "Nomony Hall" — December 5, 1778, to Mrs. Lee at Stratford.]
"The Harpscicord you want to buy we would barter for Indian Corn or Tobacco we prefer Corn & sixty two Barrels is considered equal to the Harpscicord, or four thousand eight hundred pounds of new merchantable Tobacco & payable on Delivery of the Harpscicord. …"
(Robert Carter Letter Book, No. III, page 77. Ms. Duke University Library. Typed copy, Research Dept.)
[Letter on December 21, 1778, noted that the harpsichord was sent.]
1781:
[Extract of will of Lucy Thornton Alexander, recorded in King George County on March 1, 1781 notes that she "gives her harpsichord to her daughter Frances."(See William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series, Vol. X, 1901-2, page 184.)]
1785:
[Diary of Robert Hunter, Jr. of London at Tappahannock or Hobb's Hole.]
"Tuesday, November 22 [1785] … After tea we amused ourselves with music. Kate has a fine violin and harpsichord here…"
[Wednesday December 7.] "…Kate and I played the harpsichord and violin to them in the evening. …" (Quebec to Carolina in 1785-86, San Marino: 1943, pages 204, 210.)
1792:
[Letter from Eleanor Parke Custis of Mount Vernon, December 28, 1792, to Mrs. Oliver Walcott.]
"…I am not very industrious, but I work a little, read, play on the Harpsichord, write, & walk, & find my time fully taken up…"
(Emmet Collection, Ms. New York Public Library, No. 14237. Copy Research Dept.)
1795:
[From the Herald and Norfolk and Portsmouth Advertiser for May 9, 1795.]
"…Wanted to purchase several Harpsichords and other instruments."
(The Lower Norfolk County Antiquary, Vol. IV, page 107.)
1798:
[From George Washington's diary for January 8, 1798.]
"A Mr. Marshall, Music Master, came here, tuned Nelly Custis's Harpsichord and returned after dinner."
(George Washington Diaries, Vol. IV, page 269.)
[Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Mann Randolph, Philadelphia, March 22, 1798.]
"…I have just had put on board the sloop Sally, capt. Potter for Richmond, a harpsichord for Maria, …"
(William & Mary Quarterly, 2nd series, Vol. VI (1926) page 334.)
HAUTBOY:1
[For illustrations see pages xcv, xcvi following.]
1702:
[From account by Francis Louis Michel of visit to William & Mary College during celebration announcing death of King William & Accession of Queen Anne—May 1702.]
"…the college has three balconies. On the uppermost were the buglers from the warships, on the second, oboes and on the lowest violinists, so that when the ones stopped the others began. Sometimes they all played together… "
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXIV, page 126.]
1719:
[Inventory of the personal estate of Capt. William Timson of York Co., November 11, 1719.]
"…In the hall…4 howboys, 1 gaging rod. 0: 7: 0"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XV, page 517.)
1737:
[Advertisement of Hanover County Horse-race and Entertainment to be on November 30th — St. Andrew's Day — 1737]
"6. That a handsome Entertainment be provided for the Subscribers, and their Wives … [of Ladies]… And that convenient Booths be erected for that Purpose.
(Virginia Gazette, Parks, ed., Sept. 30 -Oct. 7, 1737.)
7. That Drums, Trumpets, Hautboys, &c. will be provided, to play at the said Entertainment."
1751:
[Inventory of personal estate of James Shield, Williamsburg tavern-keeper, Jan. 21, 1750/51]
"… In the Barr. … 1 old: Fiddle, 1 old Hautboy. …"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XX, page 198.)
1754:
[Inventory of estate of John Waller, recorded in Spotsylvania County, October 1, 1754, included "a hautboy valued at 10 shillings, a flute 5 shillings, a fiddle and case 25 shillings… " (Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XV (1897) page 359.)
1755:
[Description of "That elaborate and celebrated piece of Mechanism, called the MICROCOSM; or, THE WORLD IN MINIATURE," shown in Norfolk in August, and in Williamsburg in October, 1755.]
…
(Virginia Gazette, Hunter, ed., August 29, 1755.)
"Secondly, are the Nine Muses playing in Concert on divers musical Instruments, as the Harp, Hautboy, Bass Viol &c."
1766:
[Concert at Fredericksburg on December 30, 1766, to consist of:]
"3 Violins, 1 Tenor, 1 Bass, 2 Fluits, 1 Hautboy, 1 Horn, 1 Harpsichord." (Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., December 11, 1766.)
1771:
"WILLIAM ATTWOOD Begs Leave to inform the Gentlemen of Williamsburg; that he teaches the French HORN, HAUTBOY, and German FLUTE; and has, for that Purpose, rented a Room near the College…" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 23, 1771.)
"CHARLESTOWN, South Carolina, April 11, 1771.
THE ST. CECILIA SOCIETY give Notice, that they will engage with, and give suitable Encouragement to, MUSICIANS properly qualified to perform at their Concert, … The Performers they are in Want of are, a first and second Violin, two Hautboys, and a Bassoon, whom they are willing to agree with for one, two, or three Years. John Gordon, President…" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 18, 1771.)
1778:1
1781:
[Letter from Col. Taylor, Staunton, June 19, 1781, to Governor Thomas Nelson of Virginia. Abstract.]
"… The General [Spotswood] also wants … two French horns first and second, four clarionets, one Bassoon and one 'Houtboy' as necessary to the 'Harmony and discipline' of the corps. …"
(Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Richmond: 1881, Vol. II, page 175.)
HORNS:1
[For illustrations see pages xcvii, xcviii following.]
1741:
[March 1, 1741] "… After dinner it snowed again so that we kept house. Mr. Dering played on the French horn." (Another Secret Diary of William Bird of Westover, 1739-41, Richmond: 1942, page 139.)
1766:
"To be SOLD, A YOUNG healthy NEGRO fellow, who has been used to wait on a Gentleman, and plays extremely well on the French horn. For further particulars apply to the Printer." (Virginia Gazette, Purdie [& Dixon], ed., March 28, 1766.)
(Ibid., Rind, ed., December 11, 1766.)[Concerning a CONCERT to be given at Fredericksburg, Dec. 30:]
"… Several of the best Hands in Virginia will assist in the Concert, which will be composed as folows, viz. 3 Violins, 1 Tenor, 1 Bass, 2 Fluits, 1 Hautboy, 1 Horn, 1 Harpsichord. …"
1767:
[Inventory of Joseph Pullett, tavern keeper, May 25, 1767]
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Vol. XXI, pp. 342-5.)
"… 1 bell 5/1 1 trumpet — 2/6 [£] -: 7: 6 2 French-horns 1: 0: 0 …"
"To be SOLD, A VALUABLE young handsome NEGRO FELLOW, about 18 or 20 years of age, has every qualification of a genteel and sensible servant, and has been in many different parts of the xxiv world. He shaves, dresses hair, and plays on the French horn. He lately came from London, and has with him two suits of new clothes, and his French horn, which the purchaser may have with him. Inquire at the Printing Office… " (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 23, 1767.)
"Sold at JOHN GREENHOW'S store, near the Church, in WILLIAMSBURG … hunting horns, plain and tipt with silver, …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., Dec. 3 & Dec. 10, 1767.)
1768:
"JUST arrived, the Justitia … with about 120 healthy SERVANTS, consisting of men, women, and boys, among which are many tradesÂmen, viz. … N. B. There is one of the servants who plays well on the French horn, flute, and other instruments." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., December 22, 1768.)
1769:
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S store, near the Church, in WILLIAMSBURG, … … hunting horns…" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., Sept. 28, 1769.)
1771:
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOWS store, …
… Hunting Horns tipped and plain, German Flutes and Fifes …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., April 11, 1771.)
"WILLIAM ATTWOOD Begs Leave to inform the Gentlemen of Williamsburg that he teaches the French HORN, HAUTBOY, and German FLUTE; and has, for that Purpose, rented a Room near the College…" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 23, 1771.)
1772:
[Inventory of estate of Armistead Lightfoot, Nov. 16, 1772]
"… 2 whip thongs 2/6 1 horne… "
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Vol. XXII, pages 124-7.)
[Notice of Mr. Gardiner's "Curious Set of Figures" at Theatre in Williamsburg on November 23, 1772]
"N. B. Between the acts will be instrumental music, consisting of French horns and trumpets."
(Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., November 19, 1772.)
"RUN away from Burwell's Ferry, about the 1st of February last, a Negro Boy named POMPEY, about eighteen Years old … he is a Native of Africa, speaks English tolerably, stoops when he walks, and plays on the French Horn. … JOHN GOODRICH, Junior." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., April 1, 1773.)
" A YOUNG MAN of good Character, who can take Care of Horses, and will travel with a single Person, may hear of good Encouragement by applying to Mr. Cuthbert Hubbard, near the College, in Williamsburg. If he can play upon the FRENCH HORN, it will be more agreeable." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., November 25, 1773.)
1774:
[Ball at "Lee Hall" January 18, 1774.] "…About Seven the Ladies & Gentlemen begun to dance in the Ball-Room — first Minuets one Round; Second Giggs; third Reels; And last of All Country-Dances; tho' they struck several Marches occasionally—The Music was a French-Horn and two Violins— …" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 76.)
* 1778-1781:
[Abstract of letter from Col. John Taylor to Gov. Thomas Nelson, Staunton, June 19, 178l.]
"The General [Spotswood] also wants … two French horns first and second, four clarionets, one Bassoon and one 'Houtboy' as necessary to the 'harmony and discipline' of the corps."
(Calendar of Virginia State Papers, Vol. II, Richmond: 1881, p. 175.)
"Return of Ordnance and stores at Manchester, Va., belonging to the United States. … bugle horns, French horns, &c., &c." (Ibid., vol. V, Richmond: 1885, page 322.)
ORGANS:1
[For illustrations see pages xcix - c following.]
1729:
[Lt. Governor William Gooch to the Bishop of London, "Wmsburgh' June 29th 1729."]
"… I am prevailed upon by the Gentlemen of the Country to beg the favour of your Lordship to interceed with His or Her Majesty for an Organ for our Church at Williamsburg, one of £ 200 value would be large enough. As such Gifts my Lord have sometimes been made by royal Bounty to other Places in America; the Subjects here most humbly presume to hope, that they may have as just a Claim, …"
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXXII, 1924, page 228.)
1730:
[Lt. Gov. William Gooch to Bishop of London, "Wmsburgh July 23d 1730"]
"… Those who make it their Request to me, did not know that I had applied to your Lordship for an Organ. …"
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXXII, page 234.)
1735:
"At A Vestory held for Petsworth Parrish April ye 8th 1735" …
"Memorandom At this Vestory There was Great Subscriptions mad by ye Present Vestory for an Organ to be Purchasd for the Use of the Church of Petsworth."
"At A Vestory held for Petsworth Parrish the 13th day of June 1735 …
"It Is Ordered And Agreed that Mr Augustin Smith Receive the Money Given for the purchase of An Organ for the Use of Petsworth Church … And Chang the Same Into Sterl And With What Convenient Speed he Can Send for As Good An Organ As the Said Money shall purchase In Great Britaine And to have the Same Ensured the Danger of the Seas … "
(Vestry Book of Petsworth Parish, Gloucester County, 1677-1793, C.G. Chamberlayne, ed., Richmond: 1933, page 236.)
1737:
"At A Vestory held for Petsworth Parish the 16th day of Febru 1736.[ /7] …
"It is Agreed at this vestory that Mr William Ran Undertake & Build A Good & Substantial Gallery at the west End of the Church at Popler Spring for the Use of placing an Organ Winscoted painted hansom and Substantialy Well Built Workman like for the Use aforsd withall Conventent Speed…"
(Ibid.: page 242.)
"At A Vestory held for Petsworth parish the 7th day of Apl 1737°
"At this Vestory Mr Augustin Smith Suing that he having Recd of the Several Subscribers the mony Given for the purchase of An Organ the Said Subscriptions amounting to more mony than the Said Organ Cost. this present Vestory is of Opinion that the Overplush of the Mony … Ought to be Apropriated towards the Suport and Maintanance of the Said Organ … "
(Ibid., page 243.)
"At A Vestory held for Petsworth Parish the 29th day of June 1737 °
"It is Ordered that Mr Anthony Collins be Entertained An Organist for the Parish Church of Petsworth from the Eighth day of April and that he be paid as Shall be appointed at the laying the next parish Levey. …
xxvii
To Capn Buckner & Mr Booth for bring'n Up the Organs 500
[pounds tobacco]…It is Ordered that Mr Anthony Collins be paid Ten pound Corrt mony by Mr Augustin Smith Out of the Mony Remaining in his hands it being for Six Months Servis as an Organist And Continue at the Same Rate P[er] Annum he duly Officiating in the Said office & Oblidging himsel To Teach Som Other fit person in the Mistory of the Said Musick with all Conveneiant Speed he Can. …"
(Vestry Book of Petsworth Parish, Gloucester County, 1677-1793, C. G. Chamberlayne, ed., Richmond: 1933, pages 244-5-6.)
1738:
"At A Vestory held for Petsworth Parish the 18th day of Octr 1738. …
… To Richard Lovel for Saudering the Organ pips 0028 [lbs. tobo.]
(Ibid., page 249.)
… To Wm Devals Acco for Making Steps for the Organ0066
… It is Ordered that Mr Augustin Smith pay Mr Anthony Collins Twenty pounds Corrant Ouut of the Mony Remaining in his hands Raised for the purchase of the Organs."
1740:
"At A Vestory held for Petsworth Parish 15th of Octr 1740 …
It is Orderd that Mr Augustin Smith pay Mr Anthony Collins Twenty pound Corand & Eight Shilings for for [sic] his Servis and Mending the Organ …
It is Orderd that Mr Anthony Collins Officiate as Organis Untill Such Time As the mony in the hands of Mr Augin Smith be Expended At the Rate of 20 pound per annum."
(Ibid., pages 260, 261.)
1744:
"At a Vestry held for Bruton Parish, August 22, 1744,—
Ordered, that a petition be drawn to be preferred to the next General Assembly, to request them to Contribute towards the repairs of the two wings of the Church, which were formerly built at the expense of the public. And that they will be pleased to take into their Consideration, whether an organ, to be bought by the Public and Appropriated for the use of the Church of the Parish, where the Governor resides, and the General Assembly and Courts are held, May not be Ornamental and useful in the Divine Service, Mr. Wray, Mr. Blair, Mr. Harmer and Mr. Waller prepare the same."
(Goodwin, The Record of Bruton Parish Church, Richmond: 1941, page 140.)
"Saturday, September 22, 1744. …
A Petition of the Minister, Churchwardens, and Vestry of the Parish of Bruton… was read; praying, That this House will direct the Expence of repairing the Two Wings of the Church … and referring to the Consideration of the House, Whether an Organ, to be bought by the Public, and appropriated to the Use of Divine Service, at the Church where the Seat of Government shall be, will not add greatly to the Harmony of Praise to the Supreme Being?
xxviiiOrdered, That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Committee of Claims: … [Note: On October 5, 1744, it was resolved that the wings "ought to be repaired by the Public," and that "that Part of the Petition relating to the Organ, ought to be rejected."]
(Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1742-1749, Richmond: 1909, pages 102, 121.)
1752:
[in his address to the General Assembly, made at the opening session on February 27, 1752, the Lieutenant-Governor, Robert Dinwiddie, especially noted that his "constant Care shall be to support the Church of England, as by Law established."
On March 24, 1752, the House resolved itself into "a Committee to take into their further Consideration, the Governor's Speech" and they came to several Resolutions thereupon, the first.:]"Resolved, That a Sum of Money be given to enlarge the Church in the City of Williamsburg, and for the Purchase of an Organ, to be placed therein."
(Ibid., 1752-1758, Richmond: 1909, pages 56-7. Also pages 64, 87, 92.)
"An Act for enlarging the Church [Bruton Parish Church] in the City of Williamsburg, and purchasing an Organ to be placed therein. … IV. And be it further enacted… That the said directors [Appointed to direct the enlarging of the church] … are hereby impowered to send to Great Britain for, and purchase a musical organ, for the use of, and to be placed and kept in, the said church; and to apply to the governor… to issue out his warrant to the treasurer… to pay so much money as shall be sufficient to defray the charges of purchasing and importing the said organ, not exceeding the sum of two hundred pounds,…" (William Waller Hening, The Statutes at Large, Vol. VI, Richmond: 1819, pages 230-231.)
"Williamsburg, June 25, 1752
… the Gentlemen appointed by the Assembly [for building an addition to Bruton Church] are desired to meet for that End; and to consider the Organ to be sent for. John Blair."
(Virginia Gazette, Hunter, ed., June 25, 1752.)
1755:
"Saturday, November 8th, 1755. …
A Petition of Lewis Burwell and Nathaniel Burwell, Executors of Armistead Burwell, deceased, setting forth, that this House was pleased … to grant the Sum of £200 Current Money, for the Purchase of an Organ, to be placed in the Church in the City of Williamsburg: That by the said Act a Committee was appointed to send for the same, who agreed with Armistead Burwell, (the xxix Petitioners Testator) for that Purpose, and who received the said £ 200 out of the Treasury, and that it being apprehended that the Sum granted by the Assembly, would not be sufficient to purchase the said Organ; a Subscription was set on Foot, and the Sum of £100 7 s. 6 d. was subscribed, £ 40 of which was paid to the said Armistead Burwell, in his Life-time, and the rest of the Subscribers are willing to pay the Remainder, for the Purpose aforesaid, or towards employing an Organist. That as the said Armistead Burwell… hath unexpectedly, exceeded the Sums given, as aforesaid, the Petitioners humbly hope this House will not suffer so great a Loss to fall on his Family, and praying that this House will order his Estate to be reimbursed …
Resolved. That the Sum of £ 120 7s. 8d. be paid to Lewis Burwell and Nathaniel Burwell, Executors of Armistead Burwell deceased, by the Treasurer, out of the public Money in his Hands, to reimburse the said Armistead Burwell's Estate, for the Charge of an Organ, purchased by him for the Church in the City of Williamsburg, in Pursuance of an Act of Assembly…"
(Journals of the House of Burgesses…1752-1758, page 330.)
"At a Vestry held for Bruton Parish …
Nov. 18, 1755 — Ordered that the Revd. and Honorable Commissary Thomas Dawson, the HonorabLe Jno. Blair, Esqr., Peyton Randolph, Esqr., Benjamin Waller, Esqr. or any three of them, do agree with a person to build a Loft for an Organ in the Church in the City of Williamsburg, and to set up the same. Mr. Peter Pelham is unanimously appointed and Chosen Organist of the Church in the City of Williamsburg."
(Goodwin, The Record of Bruton Parish Church, Richmond: 1941 , page 140.
"The Subscriber, Living at Mr. Nicholson's, in Williamsburg, proposes to teach Gentlemen and Ladies to play on the Organ, Harpsichord or Spinett… Cuthbert Ogle" (Virginia Gazette, Hunter, ed., March 28, 1755.)
1758:
"Wednesday, October 11th, 1758. …
A Message from the House of Burgesses, by Mr Charles Carter that they had passed a Resolve, that the Sum of Twenty-five Pounds be paid by the Treasurer of this Colony out of the Public Money in his Hands to Peter Pelham, for his Trouble in performing on the Organ in the Church in the City of Williamsburg, and for keeping the same in Order, … [Agreed to by the Council.]"
(Legislative Journals of the Council… 1754-1773, Vol. III, page 1197.)
1764:
"Friday Janry 20th 1764. …
A Message by Mr Richard Lee that the Burgesses had pass'd a Resolve that the Sum of £ 30 be paid by the Treasurer to Peter Pelham for performing on the Organ in the Church of Williamsburg during the session and for keeping the same in Order… Which Resolve was read and agreed to."
(Legislative Journals of the Council…1754-1773, Vol. Vol. III, page 1320).
1768:
"WILLIAMSBURG, June 23, 1768. …
On Sunday the 12th instant, the Organ just erected in Stratton Major church, was used in Divine service for the first time, when an elegant discourse was delivered by the Rector (from these words of the psalmist — 'Praise him with organs') to a very numerous audience, whose extreme polite and attentive behaviour, added much to the solemnity of the service of the day."
(Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., June 23, 1768.)
[Article on the Rev. John Casper Stoever, first Lutheran minister ordained in the colonies.]
"… The church [Lutheran in Madison County, Virginia] was built in 1742, and the organ was built by John Thaumberg, in List, Penn., in 1768… "
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series, Vol. IV, page 63.)
(Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., July 14, 1768.)"FREDERICKSBURG, July 6, 1768.
A SCHEME of a LOTTERY, for raising Four Hundred and Fifty Pounds, to be laid out by the managers or any six of them, towards building a new church in the town of Fredericksburg, and in the purchase of an organ for the said church. … [Prizes listed.]"
1769:
[Letter from Anne Blair of Williamsburg to her sister Martha Braxton, August 21, 1769.]
"The[y] are Building a steeple to our Church, the Door's for that reason is open every day; and scarce an Evening (as Dickey can tell you) but we are entertain'd with the performances of Felton's, Handel's, Vi-vally's, &c, &c, &c. … "
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series, Vol. XVI, 1908, page 179)
"At a Vestry held for Stratton Major Parish the 15th day of November 1769 To lay the Parish Levy …
To Edwd Walden for Inclosing & mending the Bellows of the Organ £ 5:0:- 445 [lbs. tobo.]" (Vestry Book of Stratton Major Parish, King & Queen County, 1729-1783, Richmond: 1931, page 181.)
1771:
"At a vestry held for Stratton Major Parish…the 1st day of October 1771. …
Order'd that the Collector pay James Mills 30/ for Blowing the Bellows of the organ in 1769." (Vestry Book of Stratton Major Parish, King & Queen County, 1729-1783, Richmond: 1931, page 190.
1773:
"King & Queen, January 1, 1773.
I INTEND to leave the Colony immediately, for a few Months. I have for Sale a CHURCH ORGAN, which, for Elegance and Sweetness of Tone, is inferiour to none on the Continent. The whole Case is polished Mahogany, the Pipes gilt, and the Imagery which adors it striking, and as large as the Life. The Price is two Hundred Pounds, which is vastly under the prime Cost… It now stands in Stratton Major Church. Apply to John Tayloe Corbin, Esquire, or the Subscriber.
(Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., Jan. 7, 1773.)
WILLIAM DUNLAP."
[Notice of funeral service of William Rind, Printer of Williamsburg]
"… a solemn Dirge, suitable to the Occasion, was performed on the Organ, [at Bruton] by Mr. Peter Pelham…"
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., August 26, 1773.)
[Robert Carter to Messrs. John Hyndman & Compy Merchants in London, from Nomony Hall, October 3, 1773.]
"…The Organ you sent to me was not made of seasoned wood, there fore that Instrument is Verry defective. …"
(Robert Carter Letter Book, Vol. II, pages 70-74, Mss. Duke University Library, Copy Research Dept.)
[December 13, 1773] "… Mr Carter is practising this Evening on the Guittar… he has here at Home [Nomini Hall] a Harpsichord, … & at Williamsburg has a good Organ, he himself also is indefatigable in the Practice." (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 39.)
"Invoice of Sundries for the Earl of Dunmore. …
A Chamber Organ, the demensions of which is inclosed [not among mss.] a very Small Organ for teaching Birds." (Mason, John Norton & Sons, Merchants of London and Virginia, Richmond: 1937, page 330.)
1774:
[January 7, 1774] "… The Colonel [Robert Carter] told me last Evening that he proposes to make the vacant End of our School-Room, … a Concert-Room, to hold all his instruments of Music — As he proposes to bring up from Williamsburg his Organ, & to remove the Harpsichord, Harmonica, Forte-piano, Guittar, Violin, & German Flutes…" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 68.)
1775:
["Schedule of Losses sustainted by the Earl of Dunmore, His Majesty's late Governor of the Colony of Virginia," in 1775; filed February 25, 1784.]
"26 In the Palace at Williamsburg.
(Public Record Office, London. Audit Office 13, Bundle 28. Photostat Research Dept.)
… 3 Organs, a Harpsichord, a Piano-Forte, and other Musical Instruments."
1777:
"At a Lodge held in the Lodge Room in the City of Williamsburg on the Feast of St John the Baptist Ao 5777. …
On a Motion Made and Seconded [by] Brother Edd Randolph 'tis order'd that Brother Bucktrout do hand about a Subscription among the Brotherhood for the purpose of Collecting a Sum of Money to be laid out in an Organ for the use of this Lodge, and that he report his Success at the next Lodge in Course." (Minutes of the Williamsburg Lodge of Mason, Mss. Vol. Photostat Research Dept., CWI.)
1783:
[Journal of Alexander Macaulay, a young Scotchman, who conducted a merchandizing business at Yorktown]
"Tuesday [February] the 25th [1783]… Theres the Church [Bruton Church] fam'd for its noble Organ of one hundred tones, touch'd by the modern Orpheus—the inimitable Pelham. …"
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series, Vol. XI, 1903, page 186.)
1786:
[Letter from Robert Carter of Nomini Hall to Mrs. Sarah Norton of Frederick County, May 13, 1786.]
"… It is almost 9 years Since I practised— and then I discovered no fault in my Organ—it has been Occasionally opened and played on during that time yea very lately, and I know of no defect, therein—I will take Sixty Guineas lawful money of Great Britain—all extra Charges—a Case—Packing &c Mr Norton is to pay—the whole Cost payable on delivery of the Organ.— …" .
(Robert Carter Letter Book, Vol. VII, pages 99-100. Mss. Duke University Library, Copy Research Dept.)
1787:
[Robert Carter to Mr. John Victor, Musician. "Nomony Hall 17 Nov: 1787]
" I have a Forte Piano wh Key'd instrument I imported in the year 1771 — Also an Organ with two Stops imported in the same year. open Diapason & Stop Diapason which was made according to my own direction save only the bellows wh is constructed according to the plan of the Organ buildr Mr Griffen London… Organ Price 50 Guineas exclusive of Cases & Packg …"
(Robert Carter Letter Book, Vol. VIII, page 40. Mss. Duke University Library, Copy Research Dept. CWI.)
"WILLIAMSBURG, September 24, 1787.
Agreeable to the last will and testament of Mr. JOHN GREENHOW, late of this city, will be sold at public sale, on Thursday the 18 of October … a parcel of elegant household Furniture, among which is a beautiful keyed chamber Organ and a Spinnet—… " (Virginia Gazette & Independent Chronicle, Richmond: J. Dixon, ed., September 24, 1787.)
1788:
[Robert Carter to Bushrod Washington "Nomony Hall 21 Apr. 1788"]
"I consider yr letter of the 19th as an Answer to my letter of the 9th of Janry last, directed to Capt Wm A: Washington and that Mr A Washington purchases my Organ on the Terms mentioned in said letter.
The Organ is not movable as it now stands, and, if I remember, the Pipes alone were packed in two Cases — The doors Top peice and Sundry movable boards in a 3d Case—the Bellows and Lower part containing keys &c was packed in a large Chest and I cannot agree to deliver unless the parts are separated, and carefully packed, partly in the manner as mentioned above."
(Robert Carter Letter Book, Vol. VIII, page 117, Mss. Duke University Library, Copy Research Dept. CWI).
1795:
"A LETTER, To the Rev. Jedediah Morse, A.M. Author of the 'American Universal Geography.' By a citizen Williamsburg. [St. George Tucker] Printed Richmond: Thos. Nicolson, 1795.
"… in this church [Bruton] there is a well toned Organ; and among the ancient inhabitants of the place… is the organist [Peter Pelham] whose skill in his profession still secures him a small subscription from his fellow villagers, as well as a competent number of pupils for his support. A week rarely passes in which a number of the inhabitants do not assemble for the purpose of passing an hour or two at church, while the ancient organist, or some of his pupils perform upon this instrument; and often is the passenger invited into the place, in a fine evening, by hearing 'The pealing anthem swell the note of praise.' … " (William & Mary Quarterly, 1st Series, Vol. II, 1894, pages 191-192.)
1804:
[Benjamin Crowninshield to Dr. B. L. Oliver, of Salem, Mass., from Williamsburg, May 30, 1804:]
"… The old organist, Mr. Pelham, has removed to Richmond. He has been from here about two years — His daughter took his place, and was the last public performer. She left this town, to accompany her father about a year ago. Since that time the organ has been falling to ruin. The students in their last insurrection, broke into the Church, beat the windows down, and nearly completed the destruction of the organ. Such frequent behaviour, has discouraged the inhabitants, and they have abandoned both the organ and Church.
When I first came here I attempted to repair it, but finding it impossible I gave over the intention, till two German musicians… gave everything a new turn. They gave a public concert, which excited the public feelings, and the next day… there was a generous subscription for putting the organ in complete repair.—This was a fortnight ago, and the Germans have been employed ever since, in making new pipes, and adding new valves to the wind chest. Tis now all down, and we find three stops have been taken away, viz The Cornet, Vox humana, and Sexquintia.— The stops which remain are, the O. Diap. — S. Diap— Principal, flute — twelfth — Fifteenth — and Trumpet."
(William & Mary Quarterly, 2nd series, Vol. XI, 1931, page 265.)
[Note: In the Bruton Parish Vestry Book. 1827-1889 (Mss. Vol.) there is an entry on April 18, 1829 that "all the small Pipes of the Organ be taken out and put in the hands of the Treasurer for safe keeping." On April 23, 1835, it was resolved by the Vestry "That the remains of the old organ be given to Mrs. Galt, to be disposed of in such manner as she deems proper." (Ibid.) In 1835, a "very neat and suitable organ" was furnished the church "through the spirited and persevering exertions of one lady in the congregation, aided by the efforts and contributions of many other parishioners." (Hawks, Contributions to the Ecclesiastical History of the United States of America, Vol. I, page 329.)]
PIANO-FORTES:1
[For illustrations see page ci following.]
1771:
[Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Adams in London — "Monticello. June 1. 1771"]
"Dear Sir
As it was somewhat doubtful when you left the country how far my little invoice delivered you might be complied with till we should know the fate of the association, I desired you to withhold purchasing the things till you should hear further from me.I wrote therein for a Clavichord. I have since seen a Forte-piano and am charmed with it. Send me this instrument then instead of the Clavichord. Let the case be of fine mahogany, solid, not vineered. The compass from Double G. to F. in alt. a plenty of spare strings; and the workmanship of the whole very handsome, and worthy the acceptance of a lady for whom I intend it. …"
(Boyd, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Vol. I, page 71.)
1773:
[November 10, 1773] "… The eldest Daughter [of Robert Carter of Nomini Hall] taken off by her Teacher in Music; Mr Stadley who is learning her to play the Forte-piano—" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, page 28.)
[December 1, 1773] "… the eldest [daughter of Robert Carter] is turned of fifteen… she is employed two days in every week in learning to play the Forte-Piana, and Harpsichord …" (Ibid., page 34. Also pages 74, 88.)
[December 13, 1773] "He [Robert Carter] has a good Ear for Music; a vastly delicate Taste; and keeps good Instruments, he has here at Home a Harpsichord, Forte-Piano, Harmonica…" (Ibid., page 39)
[December 25, 1773] "… While we supped Mr Carter as he often does played on the Forte-Piano. He almost never sups." (Ibid., page 54.)
[December 31, 1773] "The Colonel [Robert Carter] shewed me after Dinner a new invention, which is to be sure his own, for tuning his Harpsichord & Forte-Piano: it is a number of Whistles, of various Sizes so as to sound all the Notes in one Octave …" (Ibid., page 58.)
1774:
[January 7, 1774] "… The Colonel told me last Evening that he proposes to make the vacant End of our School-Room … a ConcertÂRoom, to hold all his instruments of Music — As he proposes to bring up from Williamsburg his Organ, & to remove the Harpsichord, Harmonica, Forte-piano, Guittar, Violin, & German Flutes, & make it a place for Practice, as well as Entertainment." (Ibid., page 68.)xxxvi
[February 28, 1774] "… Evening we performed the Sonata I the first [on flute]; Ben the second; & Mr Carter the thorough Bass on the Forte Piano." (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, page 92.)
"London Rates (1774) Sterling
Piano Forte £ 16:16:0 Packing Case — :6:- [£] 17: 2: 0"
(Robert Carter Day Book, Vol. XIII, page 43. Mss. Duke University Library, Copy CWI)
1775:
"Schedule of Losses sustained by the Earl of Dunmore, His Majesty's late Governor of the Colony of Virginia"
…
"26. In the Palace at Williamsburg [in 1775] 3 Organs, a Harpsichord, a Piano-Forte, and other Musical Instruments. …" (Public Record Office, London. Audit Office 13, Bundle 28. Mss. Photostat Research Department, CWI.)
1780:
[Gift made in 1926 by Miss Stone to the Virginia Historical Society of Richmond]
" (1) Piano [forte] made by Burkhardt, 1780, formerly owned by … Capt Richard Perkins, of 'Locust Grove,' Campbell County. "
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXXVIII, 1930, page xvi.)
1787:
[Robert Carter to John Victor, Musician. "Nomony Hall 17 Nov. 1787."]
"Sir
(Robert Carter Letter Book, Vol. VIII, page 40. Mss. Duke University Library. Copy Research Department CWI.)
I have a Forte Piano wh Key'd instrument I imported in the year 1771 — Also an Organ—with two Stops imported the same year. …
Forte piano price 12 Guineas exclusive of Case & Packg. …
Note if Mr John Victor should sell these instrumts he to retain 2 Guineas on Acct of the forte Piano and 5 Guineas on acct of the Organ."
1795:
[From Herald & Norfolk & Portsmouth Advertiser, May 9, 1795]
"… The Subscriber… offers for sale… Piano-Fortes…"
(The Lower Norfolk County Antiquary, Vol. IV, 1904, page 107.)
SPINETS:1
[For illustrations see page cii following.]
1724:
[Inventory of Joseph Walker, March 15, 1724.]
"… a spinnet — £4 …"
(York County Records, Orders, Wills, Book XVI, pages 329-33.)
1750:
[Inventory of John Grymes Esq. of Middlesex County, June 1750]
"… These Belong to Ludwell Grymes… 1 Spinet old & broke…"
(Virginia Magazine of History, VoL. XXVII, 1919, page 411.)
1751:
[Diary of John Blair of Williamsburg.]
[January 14, 1751] "14. Our Spinnet came home lame. [Jan.] 18. Mr. Pelham approved of it, and of the musick sent with it. … [August, 1751] 16. … The Cherokees took their leave of me here, much delighted with ye musick of Spinnet."
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st ser., Vol. VIII, 1899, pages 1, 11.)
"To be SOLD, for ready Money or short Credit, GREAT Variety of Houshold Furniture, of the newest Fashions, London Make, viz. … A Spinett… John Mitchelson." (Virginia Gazette, Hunter, ed., September 5, 1751.)
1755:
"THE Subscriber, living at Mr. Nicholson's, in Williamsburg, proposes to teach Gentlemen and Ladies to play on the Organ, Harpsichord or Spinett; and to instruct those Gentlemen that play on other Instruments, so as to enable them to play in Concert. … Cuthbert Ogle." (Ibid., Hunter, ed., March 28, 1755.)
1761:
[Invoice of Sundry's to be shipd by Robert Cary Esq. & Co. for the Uses of Master John, and Miss Patsy Custis, each to be charged to their own Accounts, but both consigned to George Washington October 12, 1761.]
… "1 Very good Spinit, to be made by Mr. Plinius, Harpsicord Maker in South Audley Street Grosvener Square. Note, it is beg'd as a favour, that Mr. Cary would bespeak this Instrument as for himself or a friend, and not let it be known that it is intended for Exportation. Send a good assortment of spare Strings to it."
(Fitzpatrick, Writings of George Washington, Vol. II, 1931, page 370)
1763:
[Thomas Jefferson to William Fleming RI[chmond, ca. Oct. 1.763]
"… Last Saturday I left Ned Carter's where I had been happy in other good company, but particularly that of Miss Jenny Taliaferro: … I was vastly pleased with her playing on the spinnette and singing…"
(Boyd, ed., The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Vol. I, 1950, page 12.)
1767:
[Appraisement of the Estate of Philip Ludwell, died 1767.]
At Green Spring. "… 1 Spinet 3: -: - …"
(Virginia Historical Magazine, Vol. XXI, 1913, page 409.)
"WILLIAMSBURG, Jan. 6, 1767.
MR. ANTHONY HAY having lately removed to the RAWLEIGH tavern, the subscriber has taken his shop, where the business will be carried on in all its branches… N. B. SPINETS and HARPSICORDS made and repaired. BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."
(Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., January 8, 1767)
1768:
"On Miss ANNE GEDDY singing, and playing on the SPINET.WHEN Nancy on the spinet plays
…
I fondly on the virgin gaze,
And wish that she was mine;
Her air, her voice, her lovely face,
Unite, with such excessive grace,
The nymph appears divine.Corelli, Handel, Felton, Nares,
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, December 22, 1768.)
With their concertos, solos, airs,
Are far less sweet to me! … "
1769:
[Letter of Anne Blair of Williamsburg to her sister, Mrs. Martha Braxton, August 1769.]
"… The Lady [Lady Tryon, who with her husband, Governor Tryon of North Carolina was at tea at the Blairs] had unfortunately scall'd three of her Fingers (I say unfortunately, for else she would have play'd the Spinnet) …
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st ser., Vol. XVI, 1908, pages 175, 179.)
… the Spinnet will grow so intollirably Lazy, with so much indulgence, that when Mr Starke call's on you to set them in motion; am afraid they will not move with that active spring which you from custom had made perfectly easy to them— … "
1771:
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S Store … in Williamsburg… …Spinnet Wire and Hammers …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, April 11, 1771.)
1773:
"Manchester, March 20, 1773.
LEFT with me to be sold, a large, elegant, and fine toned SPINNET; also a small Collection of Books… JAMES LYLE."
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., April 8, 1773.)
"For SALE, at Mr. JOHN PRENTIS's Store, in Williamsburg,
AN EXCEEDING ELEGANT SPINET,
in a genteel Mohogany Case, with a Musick Desk, spare Wires, Quills, &c. This Instrument is entirely new, and just imported in the Virginia, Captain Esten. The lowest Price is twenty two Pounds Currency. " (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 27, 1773. Also in Ibid., Rind, May 27, 1773.)
1774:
[June 24, 1774] "… Miss Jenny Washington came also [to Nomini Hall] … She plays well on the Harpsichord, & Spinet…
[June 24, 1774] … Miss Betsy Lee is about thirteen… & is just beginning to play the Spinet— … " (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, pages 163, 165.)
1777:
"TO BE SOLD, by the Subscriber in Bute County [N. C.] … some valuable Household and Kitchen Furniture, among them… a handsome Spinnet. … " (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., September 5, 1777.)
"To be SOLD at Mrs. ELIZABETH RANSDELL'S, in Westmoreland county … PART of the estate of JAMES DAVENPORT, deceased, consisting of … a spinet, a guitar, … JOSEPH PIERCE, Adm." (Ibid., Purdie, ed., October 17, 1777.)
1779:
"To be SOLD at the dwellinghouse of the late Rev. William Dunlap, … ALL his household and kitchen furniture… consisting of… a genteel spinnet, … Hanover, Oct. 9, 1779." (Ibid., Dixon & Nicolson, October 9, 1779.)
1787:
"WILLIAMSBURG, September 24, 1787.
Agreeable to the last will and testament of Mr. JOHN GREENHOW, late of this city, will be sold at public sale… a parcel of elegant household Furniture, among which is a beautiful keyed chamber Organ and a Spinnet—… ROBERT GREENHOW …
"(Virginia Gazette and Independent Chronicle, October 6, 1787.)
1791:
[P. Davenport, Williamsburg, May 31, 1791, to Miss Elizabeth Pelham.]
"… this Morning Miss Cary sent me a bunch of quills for my Spinnet, and I was charm'd with the little present…"
(William & Mary Quarterly, 2nd series, Vol. IX, 1929, page 268.)
1792:
[M. Davenport to Elizabeth Pelham, May 20, 1792.]
"… he [Peter Pelham] looks very well and frequently favors me with his entertaining conversation, while some of his scholars are thrumming the poor spinnet — …"
(William & Mary Quarterly, 2nd series, Vol. IX, 1929, page 270.)
TRUMPETS:1
[for illustrations see pages ciii, civ following.]
1737:
[Horse Race and Entertainment to be held in Hanover County on St. Andrew's Day, November 30, 1737.]
… "6. That a handsome Entertainment be provided for the Subscribers, and their Wives … [or Ladies] … And that convenient Booths be erected for that Purpose.
7. That Drums, Trumpets, Hautboys &c. will be provided, to play at the said Entertainment. …"
(Virginia Gazette, Parks, ed., Sept. 30-Oct. 7, 1737.)
[Account of above race and entertainment in Hanover County, on St. Andrew's Day.]
"… The Horse and Foot Races were run; … During the Time a Flag was display'd, Drums were beating, Trumpets sounding, and other Musick playing, for the Entertainment of the Company, …"
(Ibid., December 2-9, 1737.)
1739:
[Inventory of estate of Capt. William Rogers, December 17, 1739.]
"… 1 trumpet…"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XVIII, pages 553-556. )
1766:
"LONDON, August 4. … An order is issued that drums are no more to be used by the regiments of horse in this kingdom, but an additional number of trumpets are to be provided in their stead. …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., November 13, 1766.)
1767:
[Inventory of estate of Joseph Pullett, tavern-keeper in Williamsburg, May 25, 1767.]
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Vol. XXI, pages 342-345.)
"… 1 bell 5/ 1 trumpet 2/6 [£] -: 7: 6 2 French-horns 1:0:0"
1772:
[Notice of Mr. Gardiner's "Curious set of Figures" at the Theatre in Williamsburg on November 23, 1772.]
"N. B. Between the acts will be instrumental music, consisting of French horns and trumpets."
(Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., November 19, 1772.)
1776:
"AS an army without cavalry is, in all countries, a very defective machine, … general LEE begs leave to address himself to the young gentlemen of the different counties, entreating that they will form themselves into companies of LIGHT DRAGOONS, consisting of one captain, one lieutenant, one cornet, two serjeants, two corporals, and a trumpet, or horn sounder. …" (Ibid., Purdie, ed., April 19, 1776, Sup.)
VIOLINS1 (FIDDLES)2 VIOLS:3
[For illustrations see pages cv-cvii following.]
1624:
[Minutes of the Council and General Court of Virginia, 1622-1624.]
"A Court helde the 16th of August 1624…
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XIX, 1911, pages 374-376.)
Ensigne John Vtie [Utie] Complayneth against Wm Tyler for speekinge of Divers reproachfull Speeches and Slanderous woordes …
Thomas Passmour sworne… sayeth that he hurde the said Wm Tyler called the said Mr Vtie Fidlinge Rogue and Rascall…
Henry Woodward sworne…sayeth that he hurde Wm Tyler cale Mr Vtie Fidlinge Rogue and Rascall and that he was a fidler in England and got his livinge by fidlinge…
Wm. Tylers Answere
He confesseth yt he called Mr Vtie fidler, because he saw him play vppon A violl at sea: and saith yt he hurde other say he was a musitione in England, … "
1685:
[Inventory of the estate of Thomas Jordan of Surry County, Virginia, January 5, 1685.]
"… a pair of very old virginalls," "a base viall unfixt, … "
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. IV, 1897, page 3.)
1686:
[Memoirs of a Frenchman in Virginia in 1686.]
"…Col. Fitzhugh showed us the largest hospitality. He had store of good wine and other things to drink, and a frolic ensued. He called in three fiddlers, a clown, a tight rope dancer and an acrobatic tumbler, and gave us all the divertisement one could wish. …"
(Durand, A Frenchman in Virginia; Being the Memoirs of a Hugenot Refugee in 1686. translated by a Virginian. Richmond, Privately printed 1923. Pages 66-68.)
1702:
[From account by Francis Louis Michel of visit to William & Mary College during celebration announcing death of King William & Accession of Queen Anne—May 1702.]
"…the college has three balconies. On the uppermost were the buglers from the warships, on the second, oboes and on the lowest violinists, so that when the ones stopped the others began. Sometimes they all played together… "
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXIV, page 126.2
1711:
[November 2, 1711 — in Williamsburg.]
"… In the meantime the Doctor secured two fiddlers and candles were sent to the capitol and then the company followed and we had a ball and danced till about 12 0 'clock at night and then everybody went to their lodgings, …"
(The Secret Diary of William Byrd of Westover, 1709-1712, Richmond: 1941, page 431.)
1728:
[Inventory of estate of Nathaniel Harrison of Surry County, July 15, 1728.]
"In the Passage … 1 Violin & Case…"
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXXI, 1923, page 364.)
1729:
[Inventory of estate of Giles Moody of York County, January 16, 1729.]
" …Above stairs…1 Violin — [£] 0 : 10 : 0 °"
(York County Records, Orders, Wills, Book XVII, pages 35-36.)
1735:
[Inventory of estate of Edward Wright of Bruton Parish, Sept. 15, 1735.]
"…Violin…"
(Ibid., Wills & Inventories, Book XVIII, page 229.)
[Inventory of estate of Moody Burt of York County, Dec. 15, 1735.]
"…Violin…"
(Ibid., Wills, Inventories, Book XVIII, page 258.)
1736:
xliv[Inventory of estate of Charles Stagg of Williamsburg — May 14, 1736.]
"… 1 Violin… "
(Ibid., Wills, Inventories, Book XVIII, page 285.)
"We hear, from Hanover County, that on Tuesday next, (being st. Andrew's Day,) some merry-dispos'd Gentlemen… design to celebrate that Festival, by setting up divers Prizes to be contended for in the following Manner … [a horse-race for a saddle]; … A fine Cremona Fiddle to be plaid for, by any Number of Country Fiddlers, (Mr. Langford's Scholars excepted;)… " (Virginia Gazette, November 19-26, 1736.)
1737:
[Inventory of estate of Edmund Chiseman, May 27, 1737]
"… 1 Violin …"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XVIII, page 383.)
[Inventory of estate of Benjamin Moss, September 19, 1737.]
" … 1 flute and fiddle — [£] 0 : 15: 0 …"
(Ibid., Wills, Inventories, Book XVIII, page 399.)
"Williamsburg, October 7. We have Advice from Hanover County, That on St. Andrew's Day, being the 30th of November next, there are to be Horse Races, and several other Diversions, for the Entertainment of Gentlemen and Ladies …
…
3. That a Violin be played for by 20 Fiddlers, and to be given to him that shall be adjudged to play the best: No Person to have the Liberty of playing, unless he brings a Fiddle with him. After the Prize is won, they are all to play together, and each a different Tune; and to be treated by the Company. …" (Virginia Gazette, Sept. 30-Oct. 7, 1737.)
1738:
"January 11, 1737 [/8].
ON Sunday last, ran away from Col. Benjamin Harrison, in Charles City, a Servant Man, named Thomas Cellars, who was a Servant of Mrs. Stagg's: He is a small Man, about Five Feet Two Inches high; his left Eye quite out, by a blow from a Horse; very much battle ham'd, and a long, flat Foot, an Englishman by Birth, plays very well on the Violin, or Fiddle, and is a great Lover of strong Drink: He has a Wigg, a lightish Kersey Coat and Waistcoat, blew Cotten Breeches, with Silk Puffs; a Pair of grey Worsted Stockings, and Virginia Common made Shoes …"
(Ibid., January 6-13, 1737/8.)
"RAN away from the Subscriber, in Lancaster County … a dark Mulatto Fellow, named Will: … aged about 42 Years … He carried with him, … a lopping Ax, and a Fiddle: He is a Carpenter, Sawyer, Shoemaker, and Cooper … James Ball." (Ibid., April 28-May 5, 1738.)
"RAN away from the Subscriber in Charles City County … a Servant Man, named Thomas Sellers, who formerly belong'd to Mrs. Stagg … plays well on the Fiddle, and is a great Lover of strong Drink … BENJAMIN HARRISON." (Ibid., May 12-19, 1738.)
1743:
[Henry Carter of Lancaster Co., will probated Oct. 10, 1743.]
"Henry Carter's personal estate contained … a pair of silver shoe buckles, a viol, twelve leather chairs …"
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st ser., Vol. XVII, 1909, p. 282.)
1744:
[Inventory of estate of James Geddy of Williamsburg, Nov. 19, 1744.]
"… 1 Violin Damaged 7/6 …"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories Book XIX, page 321.)
1745:
""RAN away from the Subscriber, in Prince George County, on the 18th of this Instant, an Irish Servant Man, named Thomas Hoy, aged about 21 Years … he is much given to strong Drink, and lisps when he is in Liquor; plays very well on the Violin, and pretends to teach Dancing: … Thos. Degraffenried." (Virginia Gazette, September 19-26, 1745.)
1745:
"RAN away from the Subscriber's Plantation, in the Isle of Wight … a likely young Negro Man, named Tom; he is a middleÂsiz'd Fellow, Country-born, and plays very well on the Violin; … Robert Whitfield." (Ibid., November 28-December 5, 1745.)
1746:
[Inventory of estate of John Burdett, tavernkeeper of Williamsburg, August 27, 1746]
"… 1 old fiddle 2/6 …"
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XX, page 46.)
1748:
[Inventory of estate of John Crawley of Bruton Parish, July 18, 1748.]
" … 1 violin …"
(Ibid., Wills, Inventories, Book XX, page 110.)
1751:
[Inventory of estate of James Shield, tavernkeeper, Williamsburg, January 21, 1750/51]
" … In the Barr … 1 old fiddle, 1 old Hautboy … "
(Ibid., Wills, Inventories, Book XX, page 198.)
1751:
[Diary of John Blair of Williamsburg — 1751]
[Jan. 1751] "17. Clear & very warm, had compy. Mr J. R. play'd on his violin & Dr. Hackerstone on his G flute." …
(William & Mary Quarterly, 1st ser., Vol. VII, 1899, pp. 135, 142.)
[July 1751] "17. … dind wth Dr Gilmr Fine Violn Mr Pettit danced fine."
1752:
"To all Sheriffs, Constables, … WHEREAS Guy, a Negroe Man Slave, belonging to George Purcell, about two Years ago being convicted of Felony, in the County of Northumberland, broke the Goal of the said County … and is thought to be in the County of Frederick, and to pass for a Free-man by the Name of Dicken, he plays on the Violin. … [Sheriffs ordered to apprehend the man] … Robert Dinwiddie." (Virginia Gazette, Hunter, ed., March 27, 1752.)
1752:
"Williamsburg, June 12, 1752.
MR. SINGLETON takes this Opportunity of informing Gentlemen and Others, That he proposes to Teach the VIOLIN in this City, and Places adjacent, at a Pistole each per Month, and a Pistole Entrance, provided a sufficient Number of Scholars can be engaged, (not less than Six in any One Place:) He will give Attendance at York, Hampton, and Norfolk, on the aforesaid Terms."
(Virginia Gazette, June 12, 1752.)
1752:
"Ran away from the Subscriber, living in Fredericksburg, on the 27th Day of July last, a Servant Man, named Thomas Gray; he is about 36 Years of Age… a Cabinet-maker and Joiner by Trade; … much addicted to Drinking, and plays well On the Violin; was imported by Indenture from London … and is supposed to have gone towards North-Carolina… James Allen." (Ibid., October 20, 1752.)
"RAN away from the Subscriber … a small short darkÂskin'd Mulatto Slave, about 43 Years of Age, endeavours to pass for a Freeman … He can play on the Violin, and pretends to understand the making of Tobacco very well … James Cocke." (Ibid., October 27, 1752.)
"William Downman, of Richmond County, wrote his brother, in 1752:
'My little Rawlegh is a very brisk boy and sings mightily. He can sing almost any of the common tunes our fiddlers play.'" (Mary Newton Stanard, Colonial Virginia, Its People and Customs, Philadelphia: 1917, page 309.)
1754:
[Inventory of John Waller — recorded in Spotsylvania Co., Va., October 1, 1754, included: "a hautboy valued at 10 shillings, a flute 5 shillings, a fiddle and case 25 shi11ings…" (Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. IV, 1897, page 359.)
1755:
[Appraisement of estate of Cuthbert Ogle — April 23, 1755.]
"… a Fiddle & Case 21/6
Harpsichord & 2 Hammers Sterlg £ 22:11:6 …"[Settlement of estate of Cuthbert Ogle, May 19, l755.]
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XX, pages 373, 389.)
"By sale of a Harpsichord — £ 24:14:6 … By a Fiddle & Case 40/6 musick Books £ 6 :12/- 8 :12:6. "
"To be SOLD, at public SALE, AT the Royal-Exchange, in Norfolk … The Estate of Edward Dial, deceased, consisting of sundry Pictures, Household Furniture… Also a valuable Negro Slave, about 26 Years of Age, belonging to the said Estate; he is well qualified for a waiting Man, and taking Care of Horses, &c. and plays well on the Violin…
William Young, Administrator …" (Virginia Gazette, August 1, 1755.)
[Describing the MICROCOSM] "… the Nine Muses playing in Concert on divers musical Instruments, as the Harp, Hautboy, Bass Viol, &c." (Ibid., Hunter, August 29, 1755.)xlvii
[Inventory of estate of Dr. Kenneth McKenzie of Williamsburg, August 18, 1755.] "The Shop… 1 Fiddle Fiddle Bow & Strings 21/6. … " (York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XX, page 366.)
1757:
[Inventory of William Timson, January 17, 1757.]
"… 1 fiddle …"
(Ibid., Book XX, page 417.)
[Thomas Dameron of Northumberland County, died 1757, had among his effects "one fiddle". (Tyler's Quarterly Historical Magazine, Vol. VIII, 1927, page 50.)
1763:
[Will of John Fleming of Cumberland Co., dated April 7, 1763.]
"… To son John the violin I bought of Col. Hunter. …"
(Virginia Historical Magazine, Vol. XXIV, 1916, page 94.)
1766:
"To be SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW's Store, Williamsburg,
… toys, fiddles, Roman strings …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Co., ed., April 11, 1766.)
"Just IMPORTED, and to be SOLD by the subscribers, at their store in NORFOLK, The following Articles, VIZ.
… violins, German flutes, Eolus's harps, … violin bows, bridges, pegs, and strings … BALFOUR & BARRAUD." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 25, 1766.)
[Letter to Mr. John Norton, merchant in London, from Mary Savage, of Northampton County, Va., August 11, 1766.]
"Sir. I recd. yours of the 10th March by Capt. Anderson, with the Watch & Fiddle sent by him …"
(Mason, John Norton & Sons, Merchants of London & Virginia, Richmond: 1937, page 15.)
"Sold at John Greenhow's store, near the Church, in Williamsburg, … … violins, Roman strings …" (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., Sept. 19, 1766.)
[Notice of a concert to be held at Fredericksburg, on December 30, 1766, followed by supper and ball. Concert to be composed of:]
"… 3 Violins, 1 Tenor, 1 Bass, 2 Fluits, 1 Hautboy, 1 Horn, 1 Harpsichord. …"
(Ibid., Rind, December 11, 1766.)
1767:
[November 4, 1767] "Wednesday, Williamsburg. 'By Club at Hays 5/ … [Nov. 5] 'By fiddle Strings for J. P. Custis 4/4½'". (Fitzpatrick, George Washington, Colonial Traveller, page 203.)
1768:
"Entered in the district of Accomack. …
[Sept.] 7 John [ship] John Guliker [captain], from Boston, with 1 hhd. and 4 barrels of rum, sundry wooden and iron ware, … 6 fiddles … " (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., October 27, 1768.)
"Cleared. [District of Accomack.]
[Dec.] 6. John. John Guliker, for Boston, with 320 bushels of corn… 4 fiddles. …"
(Ibid., December 22, 1768.)
"RUN away from the subscriber in Halifax county, North Carolina, last April, a Virginia born Negro man named NED… He is a good sawer and hewer, and part of a carpenter, can play on the violin, and will endeavour to impose upon the publick and pass for a freeman. … JAMES BARNES." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, November 3, 1768.)
1769:
[Invoice sent John Norton, Merchant in London, enclosed in letter of George Wilson of York, Va., dated August 24, 1768.]
"Invoice of Sundry Merchandise for the Year 1769. … Musick — 1 Simpson best Violin large & good 10/Â the last was good. …"
(Norton Mss., Colonial Williamsburg archives.)
"TWENTY POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away from the Neabsco Ironworks, in Virginia, on or about the 10th of October last, a country born Negro man slave named BILLIE, the property of the Honourable John Tayloe, Esq; he is about 30 years of age, very black, well made… THOMAS LAWSON. N. B. Billie plays on the violin." (Virginia Gazette, Rind, ed., February 9, 1769.)
"TEN POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away from the subscriber's plantation, in Loudoun county … TOM, a Negro man slave… he can read, and play on the fiddle… He managed several years as an overseer for me … HENRY LEE." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., March 9, 1769.)
"LONDON, January 7. …
A female performer on the violin is shortly expected [in London] from Venice, whose vast execution on that instrument, so uncommon to the sex, will, it is thought, astonish every body." (Ibid., Rind, ed., April 6, 1769.)
"RUN away from the subscriber in Charles City county … a VIRGINIA born Negro fellow named PETER, about 44 years of age… He also carried away a gun of uncommon large Size, and a fiddle, which he is much delighted in when he gets any strong drink. … WILLIAM GREGORY." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, May 4, 1769.)l
WILLIAMSBURG, Sept. 14, 1769.
WANTED, to buy or to hire AN orderly Negro or Mulatto man, who can play well on the violin. Whoever has such a One may have good wages, or a good price… WILLIAM FEARSON. " (Virginia Gazette, Rind., Ed., September 14, 1769.)
"To be SOLD, for ready money,
A Very valuable young Negro man, who understands cleaning of a house, and is well qualified to wait on a single Gentleman, or a family, a very good gardener, and a tolerable good cook, butcher, and plaisterer, and in short very handy at any thing. He is also sober, very honest, and can play on the violin. Enquire of the Printer hereof." (Ibid., Rind, ed., October 19, 1769. Sup.)
"RUN away from the subscriber in Lancaster, a Virginia born Negro man named GEORGE, about 25 years old … of a clear speech, plays On the fiddle, reads, can write a little … RICHARD CHILTON." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., December 21, 1769.)
1770:
"WILLIAMSBURG, Feb. 1, 1770.
THE subscriber, who is removed from New Kent to his house in this city … has opened store, … The following are the articles he has now on hand, viz. … fiddle strings…
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., February 15, 1770.)
JOHN LEWIS."
"RUN away from the subscriber, in Henrico, … a Negro fellow named JOE … 20 years old … and is a fiddler …JOHN HARWOOD, sen." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 19, 1770.)
"A CATALOGUE of BOOKS, &c. to be SOLD at the POST OFFICE in Williamsburg.
… Instructions for the violin and flute, … Cremona and Steiner's VIOLINS, with best screw bows. Silver basses and best Roman strings. …"
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., November 29, 1770.)
"A CATALOGUE of BOOKS, &c. to be SOLD at the POST OFFICE in WIILLIAMSBURG.
… Cremona and Steiners Violins, with best Screw Bows. Silver Basses and best Roman strings. …"
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., December 13, 1770; also Ibid., January 3, 1771.)
1771:
"SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S Store, … in WILLIAMSBURG. … … Fiddles, and Roman Fiddle Strings… " (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., April 11, 1771.)li
"LONDON, January 16. …
It is allowed by all those who have heard Seigniora Sirmen, who now plays the Violin at the Opera House in the Haymarket, that she brings the finest Tone to that Instrument that has been heard; she has also the great Advantage of being a very genteel and beautiful Woman." (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds. April 18, 1771.)
"… to be sold at the Post Office …
Tip-top VIOLINS, with elegant Screw Bows, at five Pounds a Piece. …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 16, 1771.)
"FRANCIS RUSSWORM, BEGS Leave
to acquaint the young Gentlemen in and about Williamsburg that he shall Open School on Monday the 3d of June, at Mr. Singleton's House, to teach the VIOLIN, GERMAN and COMMON FLUTES…" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 16, 1771.)
"CHARLESTOWN, South Carolina, April 11, 1771.
THE ST. CECILIA SOCIETY give Notice, that they will engage with, and give suitable Encouragement to, MUSICIANS properly qualified to perform at their CONCERT, … The Performers they are in Want of are, a first and second Violin, two Hautboys, and a Bassoon, whom they are willing to agree with for one, two, or three Years. John Gordon, President…"
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 18, 1771.)
"RUN away from Williamsburg, on Sunday last, a Convict Servant Man named ANDREW FRANKS, a Ropemaker by Trade, and can play very well On the Violin. … WILLIAM FEARSON." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., August 15, 1771.)
" … PURDIE and DIXON have imported …
… Violins, … Instructions for the Harpsichord, Violin, and German Flute, …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., August 29, 1771.)
"Just IMPORTED from LONDON… and to be SOLD…at RICHMOND Town, by ELIZA STRACHAN and Sisters … a great Variety of Toys, best Roman Fiddlestrings, &c. &c. " (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., October 31, 1771.)
"ESSEX, October 1, 1771.
RUN away from the subscriber … an apprentice lad named William Hudson, by trade a tailor, about 19 years of age, … can play tolerable well on the violin. … RICHARD PHILLIPS."
(Ibid., Rind, ed., October 31, 1771.)
"To be SOLD at JOHN GREENHOW'S store, … in Williamsburg, … … Fiddles and Roman strings …" (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., December 12, 1771.)
1772:
"Just Imported from London …
… Inkpots, Fiddle Strings, … C. RATHELL." (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., April 23, 1772.)
"RUN away from my Plantation in King and Queen, on the 11th of last Month, a likely Negro Man named ABRAHAM, … has lost Part of the fore Finger of his left Hand, and plays on the Violin. … SAMUEL MEREDITH, Senior." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 7, 1772.)
"PRINCE GEORGE, May 6, 1772.
RUN away from the Subscriber, a Negro Man named DERBY, about twenty-five Years of Age … and plays on the Fiddle with his left Hand, which he took with him [sic]; … ROBERT HUNNICUTT, Junior." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., May 14, 1772.)
"A Catalogue of BOOKS, STATIONARY, &c. to be sold at the Post Office, Williamsburg.
… Violins, Screw and common Bows, Bridges, and Strings … "
(Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., September 17, 1772.)
1773:
"RUN away from the subscriber, in Charlotte county, on the 22nd of March, a Negro fellow named NED, about 26 years of age… can play on the violin, in which he takes great delight. …
RICHARD GAINES." (Ibid., Rind, ed., April 15, 1773.)
"RUN away from the subscriber, on the 15th of April, a Negro man named JACK, belonging to Mr. John Fox, of Gloucester county. … He is by trade a shoemaker, and once worked with Mr. Robert Gilbert in Williamsburg, is fond of the violin, and has taken with him a new one, which his master lately gave him; … THOMAS PEMBLE." (Ibid., Rind, ed., May 20, 1773.)
"RUN away from the Subscriber … a NEGRO MAN about forty Years of Age… has a Brand on his Forehead … he can read and write tolerably, and is a very good Hewer, Sawer, and Fiddler. … JOHN HARE. Hartford County, North Carolina. June 9, 1773." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., June 24, 1773.)
"Mr. Francis Russworm, of Nansemond County, who played such sweet Fiddle, and was a worthy good-tempered Man, had the Misfortune to be drowned a few Days ago in crossing over some Ferry." [See note under 1771] (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., June 24, 1773.)liii
"A CATALOGUE OF BOOKS, STATIONARY, &c.
To be SOLD at the PRINTING OFFICE, Williamsburg.… German Flutes and Violins. Violin Strings and Bridges…"
(Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., June 10, 1773.)
"RUN away from the Subscriber, in Chesterfield … a Negro Fellow named STEPHNEY, near thirty Years old, … he plays a little on the Fiddle, is a Shoemaker by Trade … JOSEPH BASS." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., July 22, 1773.)
"WILLIAMSBURG, November 4, 1773.
RUN away from the Subscriber, the Negro Boy so well known in this City by the Name of FIDDLER BILLY … He belongs to the Estate of Edward Nicholson, deceased; and I hired him of Mr. Benjamin Weldon, the Executor … WILLIAM FEARSON." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., November 4, 1773.)
"RUN away from the Subscriber, a Mulatto Man named ABEL, about forty Years old, near six Feet high, … and plays on the Violin. He is well known as a Pilot for York River and the Bay … SAMUEL MEREDITH, Senior. King & Queen, November 16, 1773." (Ibid., Purdie & Dixon, eds., December 2, 1773.)
"… he [Col. Robert Carter of Nomini Hall has here at Home a Harpsichord …Guittar, Violin, & German Flutes …" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 39. Also page 68.)
1774:
[January 18, 1774 — describing ball at "Lee Hall," near Nomini Hall]
"… — About Seven the Ladies & Gentlemen begun to dance in the Ball-Room — first Minuets one Round; Second Giggs; third Reels; And last of All Country-Dances; tho' they struck several Marches occasionally — The Music was a French-Horn and two Violins — …"
(Ibid., page 76.)
[Inventory of estate of Charles Taylor of Southampton County, January 13, 1774, listed a flute and a violin.] (Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXIII, 1915, page 218.)
"RUN away from the Subscriber, in King William, a Mulatto Fellow named DAVID GRAFFENREAD, … can play the Fiddle extremely well, and is very fond of Liquor. … RICHARD KING." (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., February 17, 1774.)
[January 30, 1774] "… This Evening the Negroes [at Nomini Hall] collected themselves into the School-Room, & began to play the Fiddle, & dance — …" (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 82.)liv
[June 15, 1774] "… Mr Stadley [music teacher] spent the evening in playing several songs & Sonata's on the Harpsichord & Violin— … " (Journal & Letters of Philip Vickers Fithian, 1773-1774, Williamsburg: 1943, page 160,)
[August 2, 1774] "… About Sunset we left the Ship, & went all to Hobbs's Hole, where a Ball was agreed on — …… The Ball Room — 25 Ladies — 40 Gentlemen — The Rooms very long … two Fidlers …" (Ibid., page 203.)
[Letter of Philip Fithian to John Peck, from Nomini Hall, August 12, 1774.]
"… any young Gentleman travelling through the Colony [Virginia] as I said before, is presum'd to be acquainted with Dancing, Boxing, playing the Fiddle, & Small-Sword, & Cards, …"
(Ibid., page 212.)
[October 18, 1774.] "… After Dinner with Mr Lowe on the violin, I play'd over many tunes on the Flute, he plays with good Taste and accuracy— …" (Ibid., page 270.)
"Just Imported, and to be SOLD by the Subscriber in Williamsburg … … Seals and Trinkets, Watch Chains … Sword Canes and Rattans, Violins … C. RATHELL." (Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds., October 20, 1774, Sup.)
"Greenwich, November 29, 1774.
RUN away, on the 1st of September, a very likely Virginia born Negro slave named GABRIEL, by trade a weaver, about 26 or 27 years of age … He is fond of reading, and plays well on the violin. … JOHN FOX." (Ibid., Pinkney, ed., December 1, 1774.)
1775:
"RUN away from the Estate of John Hamilton, deceased, in Prince George County, a likely Virginia born Negro Fellow, about 25 Years of Age … and plays on the Fiddle. … He carried with him … his Fiddle. …" (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, January 28, 1775.)
"Run, away from the subscriber, in Stafford county … a negro fellow named HARRY, Virginia born … is very fond of playing on the fiddle, though but a poor hand … TOWNSHEND DADE. " (Ibid., Purdie, ed., February 3, 1775.)lv
[Notes from the Records of Brunswick County, Va.]
"Inventory of Col. Drury Stith, including … a fiddle & case £1: 10. … June, 1775."
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. XXVIII, 1920, page 164.)
[Thomas Jefferson and John Randolph of Williamsburg were great friends, and on October 11, 1771, they drew up a semi-facetious agreement that, among other things, if Jefferson survived Randolph, Jefferson should have "the violin which the said John brought with him into Virginia"; if Randolph survived Jefferson, he should have the choice of books in Jefferson's library. John Randolph was a Tory in sympathies, and in 1775 he left Virginia for England. Before leaving he sent Jefferson a message concerning the violin; and Jefferson answered as follows from "Monticello. Aug. 25, 1775."]
"I received your message by Mr. Braxton and immediately gave him an order on the Treasurer for the money… I now send the bearer for the violin and such musick appurtaining to her as may be of no use to the young ladies. I believe you had no case to her. If so, be so good as to direct Watt Lenox to get from Prentis's some bays or other coarse woollen to wrap her in, and then to pack her securely in a wooden box. I am sorry the situation of our country should render it not eligible to you to remain longer in it. …"
(Kimball, Jefferson — The Road to Glory, page 55; and Boyd, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Vol. I, pages 240-241.)
[From John Randolph to Thomas Jefferson August 31, 1775.]
"Dr. Sr.
I have received ten Guineas of the Treasurer and have left the Violin with Mr. Cocke of Wmsburg. I wish I had a Case for it.Tho we may politically differ in Sentiments, yet I see no Reason why privately we may not cherish the same Esteem for each other which formerly I believe Subsisted between us. Should any Coolness happen between us, I'll take Care not to be the first mover of it. … "
(Ibid., Vol. I, page 244.)
note, At the end of his life, Jefferson owned three violins: a small one which he carried with him on his journeys which he claimed "would fetch in London any price"; the one which had belonged to John Randolph which he came into possession of in the half-facetious manner mentioned above; and a Cremona. See Kimball, Jefferson — The Road to Glory page 55.]
1776:
"RUN away from the subscriber, in Albemarle, a mulatto slave, named GABRIEL, about 52 or 53 years of age … He plays exceedingly well on the violin. … JOHN HUDSON." (Virginia Gazette, Pinkney, January 20, 1776.)
"GLOUCESTER, April 10, 1776.
For SALE, for ready Money only. … Razon Straps, Violin, Shalloons, Calimancoes … MATTHEW ANDERSON." (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., April 20, 1776.)
"RUN away from the subscriber, in Prince George … Will … much troubled with sore eyes, and fond of playing the fiddle. … THOMAS PENISTONE." (Ibid., Purdie, ed., April 26, 1776.)
"Deaths.) …
Mr. CHARLES LEONARD, a native of Cologne in Germany, and well known in Virginia for his excellent but capricious performance on the violin. He died in his 76th year, and played his last solo in the house of Mr. Blovet Pasteur of this city." (Ibid., Purdie, ed., September 20, 1776.)
"Deaths, — … At Williamsburg, Mr. CHARLES LEONARD, a native of Germany, in an advanced age, who has long resided in this colony, and was famous for his excellent performance on the violin." (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., September 21, 1776.)
1777:
"RUN away, the 30th of April, BEN, a Negro Fellow belonging to the Estate of Adam Fleming, Esq; deceased. He is 25 Or 30 Years of Age … He has been lurking about Williamsburg and York, and plays the Fiddle. … JAMES WILLSON." (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., May 9, 1777.)
"RUN away from the subscriber in Charlotte … a negro man named NED … about 29 years old … walks with his toes much turned out, plays on the violin, pretends sometimes to make fiddles, and is very forward in speaking. … RICHARD GAINES, sen." (Ibid., Purdie, ed., May 23, 1777.)
"BLAND'S ORDINARY (Prince George) Oct. 4, 1777.lvii
RUN away from the Subscriber last Night, a likely young Negro Wench named HANNAH (Daughter of Sykes's Doctor) 18 or 19 Years of Age … a good Deal like her Father, the well known Fiddler. … THOMAS FENNER." (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., October 17, 1777.)
"To be sold, at the Subscriber's Store, on the south Side of the CAPITOL, … Fiddle-strings … W. MATHEWS." (Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Hunter, November 28, 1777.)
"TO be sold … at the glebe in Brunswick parish Stafford county, where the late Rev. Christopher Todd lived; … two choice violins …" (Ibid., Purdie, ed., December 12, 1777.)
1778:
"YORK TOWN, January 15, 1778.
On Wednesday the 4th of February will be exposed to sale at my house in this place … sundry household and kitchen furniture, amongst which are … a good fiddle … German flute, … G. RIDDELL." (Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, eds., January 23, 1778.)
1779:
[Inventory of Henry Bowcock, March 9, 1779.]
"… 1 violin £12, … "
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XXII, page 447.)
[Run away from Buckingham County] "… a Virginia born negro fellow … he is about twenty nine years old … and was very fond of playing on the fiddle before he left me. ANTHONY _____ [illegible] (Virginia Gazette, Clarkson & Davis, eds., May 15, 1779.)lviii
"RUN away from the subscriber at Guilford warehouse, in Accomack county, three negro men, viz. Isaac, Ned, and Jacob. Issac is about 28 years of age, … by trade a shoemaker, and is very fond of playing on the violin. … WILLIAM YOUNG." (Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Nicolson, eds., June 12, 1779.)
"For SALE at the subscriber's store in Williamsburg, … … fiddlestrings, wafers, allum … WILLIAM HUNTER." (Ibid., Dixon & Nicolson, eds., October 16, 1779.)
c.1779
[Memoirs of Philip Mazzei — a graduate of the University of Florence, who came to Virginia in December, 1773, with several other Italians, to introduce the cultivation of the grape, olive, etc. He was sent to Europe in 1779-1783 to obtain army stores and loans for Virginia, and returned in 1784. Jefferson arranged to rent Mazzei's house in Albemarle County for the period he was to be in Europe.]
" … In all the places where I usually stopped in Virginia, I found a letter from Jefferson, telling me that he had rented my house to four young officers among the prisoners — one a German, and the others Englishmen — so that I would not rent it to anyone else …
… and he would have been sorry if I had engaged it to someone else, because the German officer, besides being a courteous young man, played the violin very well, and Jefferson, who played the violoncello passably, found him an interesting person to have near."
(William & Mary Quarterly, 2nd Ser., Vol. IX, 1929, pages 252-253, Trans.)
1783:
[Inventory of the estate of Capt. John Harris of York County, November, 1783.]
(York County Records, Wills, Inventories, Book XXIII, page 69.)
"One Guittar Case &c £2: -: Â One Fiddle without a Case 2:10: Â One Fiddle & Case 3: 0: - …"
1785:
[Travel diary of Robert Hunter, Jr., a London merchant. At. Mr. McCalls, Tappahannock or Hobb's Hole, Tuesday, November 22, 1785:]
"… After tea we amused ourselves with music. Kate has a fine violin and harpsichord here. Colonel Smith supped with [us] … After supper he amused us with playing charmingly On the violin, entirely by his ear. …"
[Wednesday, December 10, 1785:] "… Kate and I played the harpsichord and violin to them in the evening. …"
(Quebec to Carolina in 1785-1786, San Marino: 1943, pages 204, 210.)
1786:
[Diary of Robert Hunter, Jr. — In Gloucester at Mr. Warner Lewis's; February 23, 1786.]
"… Mr. [Carter] Page, knowing I played on the violin, asked me to favor him with a tune. I could not refuse, and immediately desired my friend Hadfield to accompany me. He played several duets, which brought in the ladies. …"
(Quebec to Carolina 1785-;1786, San Marino: 1943, page 229.)
[Robert Carter's instructions to Mr. Randall, whom he sent to Baltimore to attend to several matters.]
"Nomony Hall 10 May 1786.
(Robert Carter Letter Book, Vol. VIII, pages 95-6, Mss. Duke University Library, Copy CWI.)
… Enquire … what will be given for a fine Stainer Fiddle …"
1787:
"Eight Dollars Reward
RUN away from the subscriber … a negro man named MATT, about 24 years of age, 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, of a tawney complexion, with remarkable large lips … He was formerly the property of John Clayton, dec. in Gloucester county, and is supposed to be in that neighbourhood, plays the fiddle and I expect will change his dress. … PETER MYERS." (Virginia Gazette & Weekly Advertiser, Richmond, October 25, 1787.)
1795:
[From the Herald & Norfolk & Portsmouth Advertiser, May 9, 1795.]
"The Subscriber … offers for sale … violins, guitars, clarinets, and Piano-Fortes … B. Francis"
(Lower Norfolk County Antiquary, Vol. IV, 1904, page 107.)
ADDENDA
CITTERN:
Descended from the medieval citole, the cittern was popular in Europe from the end of the 15th to the beginning of the 18th century. It was not mentioned in eighteenth century Virginia sources that I checked.
[See page cviii following for an account of the cittern from Grove's Dictionary of Music and Musicians, and page cix for an illustration, from ibid., plate 69 fig. 1.]
DRUMS:
1737: Although drums were not usually included in eighteenth century Virginia concerts [see pages 3-6 of this report for notes on concerts], they were included among the instruments to provide entertainment at a "Horse-race and Entertainment" to be held on St. Andrew's day (November 30th) 1737 in Hanover County. The notice in The Virginia Gazette for Sept.30-0ct.7, 1737, concluded with the statement: "…Drums, Trumpets, Hautboys, &c. will be provided to play at the said Entertainment."
Drums were mentioned in Virginia records from the early seventeenth century, when they were used for summoning people together, sounding alarms, and for martial and military purposes. See FIFES, pp.v-vii. [For types of drums used in England see Grove's Dictionary of Music… (5th ed. 1954) Vol. II (C-E) pages 769-775: Kettle drums; Bass drums, Side drums; Tenor drums.]
DULCIMER:
This rather loud, harsh instrument, the prototype of the pianoforte, as the psaltry was of the harpsichord, was known in England from the 15th century. Said to have been brought into Europe during the Crusades, its popularity was greater and lasted longer on the Continent [see Oxford English Dictionary, Vol. III, p. 709; and Grove's Dictionary of Music… for illustration and account of the dulcimer, pages cix and cx following.] I have found no reference to the dulcimer in eighteenth century Virginia sources I have checked.*
JEWS HARP:
A small horseshoe-shaped frame of brass or iron, with an elastic steel tongue, the Jews harp, or Jews tromp, is played by striking the free end of the tongue with the finger, variations of tone being produced by altering "the size and shape of the cavity of the mouth." [See Oxford English Dictionary, Vol. V (H-K) p.597, this dictionary citing examples of usage of the words from 1595 to 1893.] It is suggested in Grove's Dictionary of Music… that the name Jews harp or Jews trump is "probably a corruption of the Dutch Jeudtromp (child's trumpet). It apparently has no connection either with Jews or jaws, though the latter would be more appropriate." [See Grove's Dictionary… , Vol. V (H-K) page 636.]
1762-1778: Jews harps were advertised for sale between 1762 and 1778 in The Virginia Gazette [see … Index]; and a number of Jews harps were found in Williamsburg excavations.
LUTE:
An important early instrument, we are told that the hey-day of the lute in England was from circa 1590 to 1630, in Paris from circa 1615 to 1699, and in Germany it had a revival from about 1660 to 1790. [See Grove's Dictionary… Vol. V, page 439.]
I have found no references to lutes in Virginia in the eighteenth century records I have checked; and, although it is possible that eighteenth century French and German settlers in Virginia may have brought the lute to Virginia, it was certainly an uncommon instrument in Virginia at that time. There is record that in 1793, at a concert in Baltimore, a "Mr. Beranger from Europe" played a "French song, accompanied on the lute"—possibly an instrument of the German revival. [See O. G. Sonneck, Early Concert Life in America (1731-1800), New York, 1949, page 49.] A biographer of Patrick Henry has stated that as a young man Henry played on the violin, lute, and harpsichord; but I suspect that in this instance someone misread the original manuscript account, reading "lute" for "flute," which was much more likely. A number of Henry's contemporaries played on the violin and the flute. [See Robert D. Meade, Patrick Henry, Vol. I, pages 54, 90, 9l.]
[See page cxi following for illustrations of "Instruments of the Lute Family"; and pages cxii-cxiv for an account of the lute, from Grove's Dictionary of Music and Musicians.]
MANDOLIN:
The guitar and mandolin, of the lute family, were familiar in Philadelphia in 1769, when an Italian, John Cauldo, advertised in Philadelphia newspapers that he "has for Sale, a few Violins, German Flutes; guittars; mandolins; spinnets; clavichords,"; and that he would "teach a few Gentlemen to play on the Violin and German Flute, and a few Ladies on the Guittar and Mandolin, either at his house…or at their places of abode." [See The Pennsylvania Chronicle, February 13-20, 1769; The Pennsylvania Journal, September 21, 1769.]
1784: The guitar and mandolin may have become popular in Virginia at about the same time—the guitar was apparently familiar there by 1773. However, no mandolins were listed in the wills and inventories which I have examined; or advertised for sale in The Virginia Gazette through' 1780. In The Virginia Gazette and Weekly Advertiser (Richmond), for November 27, 1784, Mr. Wall gave notice that he lived at "Mr. Thompson's, in Hanover County," and would "wait on Ladies and Gentlemen at their own Homes" to teach them the "Guitar and Mandoline." [See pages xii-xiv of this report for Virginia references to Guitars. For an account of the Mandolin (Mandoline) from Grove's Dictionary of Music …, see page cxv following.]
RECORDER
"An early flute, also called the English Flute," the recorder is the "chief member of a family of flutes blown vertically." Although the English flute was still used in the eighteenth century, the German or transverse flute had so gained in popularity that in 1773 the recorder was referred to as an lxii. instrument "formerly used in England." [See Oxford English Dictionary (1933 ed.) Vol. VIII (Po-Ry), page R-268.] Although an attempt was made to "revive the recorder as a popular instrument for amateurs …at the beginning of the 19th century," it remained obsolete, according to Grove's Dictionary of Music, until the 20th century.
Although I found no reference to the recorder by that name in the eighteenth century Virginia records I examined, there were a number of references to Flutes, English flutes, and German flutes. [See pages 3-6 and viii-xii of this report for Virginia references to Flutes; also illustrations, pages lxxxii-lxxxvi following—the last two pages from Grove's Dictionary of Music… account of the recorder, Vol. VII, pp.73-76.]
Mary R. M. Goodwin
December, 1974,
"Family Group" painted by Charles Phillips (1708-1747. English.) In Palace Dining Room, Colonial Williamsburg.
"Concert at Montagu House" from drawing by Marcellus Laroon. British Museum.
[Taken from Randall Davies. ENGLISH SOCIETY OF THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY IN CONTEMPORARY ART (London: 1907), op. page 34.
"A Family party." From a drawing W Philip Mercier, in British Museum.
from Randall Davies, ENGLISH SOCIETY OF THE 18TH CENTURY IN CONTEMPORARY ART (London:
op. p. 38.]
"A Family Party." From a painting by Zoffany.
(Countess Cowper) Following page 72 (2nd illustration) in Randall Davies, ENGLISH SOCIETY OF THE 18TH CENTURY IN CONTEMPORARY ART (London: 1907).
PLANCHE XVIII
La vignette represente l'attelier d'un Luthier, où font plusieurs compagnons oocupes a differens objets de cet Art.
- Fig. 1Compagnon qui rabote la table d'un instrument placee sur l'etabli.
- 2.Compagnon occupé a faire la console d'une harpe. On voit qulil perce les trous des chevilles.
- 3.Compagnon qui acheve un violon.
- 4.Autre compagnon qui vernit Ie bras & la console d'une harpe organisee. Le bras est entre pour la commodite de l'ouvrier sur un baton a pic que l'on voit en a. On voit en b. un corps de basse qui vient d'etre collé, & qui est pressé par des happes a vis jusqu'a ce qu'il soit sec.
- 5.Corps sonore d'une harpe détaché du bras & de la console, que l'ouvrier fig. 4. vernit. c la table du corps Sonore. d Ie crampon de ser qui unit le bras au corps sonore. e deux pitons ou chevilles de fer qui unissent la console au corps de la harpe.
- 6.Harpe organisée montee & toute finie.
- 7.f Vielle en luth toute finie. g l'etui de la vielle. Le surplus de l'attelier contient differens instrumens a cordes & a vent.
Chambers, Cyclopaedia Vol. III (London: 1781, Miscellany—Tab. II.
BAGPIPES
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th edition, 1954) Vol. I (A-B), op. page 352. Plate 2.
[For history of Bagpipes see Ibid., pages 344-354.]
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie … Recueil de Planches. sur les Sciences, les Arts Liberaux, et les Arts Mechaniques. Vol. V Paris: 1767
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. I, pp. 402-403 [For full text see pp. 401-403.]
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. I, (A-B) page 456
[On page 457 the account states that the "ordinary street organ was first made by a builder named Hicks at the beginning of the 91th century. It flourished in the streets of London and other English towns during that century, but… has now entirely disappeared."]
BASS00NS (AND OBOES)
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. I, (A-B), op. page 488. Plate 3.
[For full account of Bassoons, see Ibid., pp. 485-494.]
BASSOON
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767.
| Fig. 40. | Basson vu paraassus. | 41. | Basson vu pardessous. |
| 42. | Grosse piece du basson. | 43. | Cul du basson. |
| 44. | Petite piece du basson. | 45. | Bonnet du basson. |
| 46. | Bocal du basson. | 47. | Troisieme & quatrieme clés du basson. |
| 48. | Premiere clé du basson. | 49. | Profil de la premiere clés du basson. |
| 50. | Anche du basson. | 51. | Seconde clé du basson. |
| 52. | Profil de la second clé du basson. | ||
| 53. | Tenon. | 54. | Soupape. |
BUGLES:
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, Fifth edition, 1954) Vol. I (A-B), p. 1004 & illustration facing page.
BUGLE
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (1954- Fifth edition). Vol. I (A-B), op. page 1005. Bugles.
CLARINETS
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 1954 5th edition, ) Vol. II (C-E), Plate 11. [For text see Ibid., pages 315-329.]
CLARINET
PLANCHE VIII
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767.
GERMAN CLAVICHORD, 1763
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 1954 5th edition, ) Vol. II (C-E), Frontispiece (Plate 7) [For text on Clavichord see pages 336-339.]
CLAVICH0RD
From: ENCYCLOPAEDIA BRITANNICA (London & New York, 1932) Vol. V (Ca-Co), p. 783.
FIFES
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 1954 Fifth edition, ) Vol. III (F-G), p. 88.
For illustration of English Fife, see page lxxxii following: (Plate 21, No. 13, from Ibid., under Flute.)
FIFES, etc.
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767
| Fig. 1. Fifre suisse. | 4. Flutet de tambourin. |
| 2. Autre fifre. | 5. Flageolet d'oiseau. |
| 3. Fifre à bec. | 6. Parties du flageolet d'oiseau. |
| 7. Gros flageolet. |
FLUTES etc.
From: Eric Blom, ed., GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 1954 5th edition, ) Vol. III (F-G), op. page 176.
(Flutes, figures 1 and 14-17. Recorders figures 6-12.)
FLUTES, etc.
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767.
| Fig. 8. Dessus de flute traversiere. | 9 & 10. Flute dt'acord & sa coûpe. |
| 23. Flûte à bec. | 24, 25 & 26. Parties séparees de la flûte à bec. |
| 27. Ton. |
FLUTES
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767.
| Fig. 28. Flûte traversiere. | 29. Coûpe de la flute traversiere. |
| 30, 31, 32, 33. Les quatre parties séparées de la flute traversiere. | |
| 34. Basse de flûte traversiere. | |
| 35, 36, 37, 38. Les quatre parties séparées de la basse de flôte traversiere. |
FLUTES; RECORDERS.
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, Fifth ed., 1954.) Vol. VII (R-So), pages 73-76. [Complete account, see pages 73-78.]
THE RECORDER (from Grove's Dictionary) cont'd.
GUITARS:
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th edition, 1954.) Vol. VIII (Sp-VIO), Plate 68. Guitars, figures 2 and 3.
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767.
| Fig. 3. Guitare | Fig. 4. Guitare simple |
Mrs. Benjamin Rush. 1776. Also enlargement of portion of portrait by Peale showing guitar she is playing—the instrument described as "Guitar, red wood with black and gold." [For color photograph of portrait and enlargement see Charles C. Sellers, PORTRAITS & MINIATURES BY CHARLES WILLSON PEALE
(American Philosophical Society: 1952), pages 188, 294.]
[enlargement]
HARM0NICA (ARMONICA)
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, Fifth edition, 1954.) Vol. I (A-B), pp.204-206.
HARPS.
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. IV (H-K), op. p. 90. See pp. 89-93 for data on Harps.
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767.
HARPSICH0RDS.
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. IV (H-K), op. p. 96. [See ibid., pages 95-100 for information on Harpsichord and Harpsichord playing.]
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767.
PLANCHE XIV [Harpsichord]
Fig. 1. Clavecin monte sur san pie sans son couvercle. 5. Pupitre du clavecin. A. Sautereau sans languette. E. Sautereau avec sa languette. F, f, G, H, I. Sautereaux. K, L. Languettes. M. Fiche.
HAUTBOYS (OBOES)
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, Fifth edition, 1954.) Vol. VI (N-Q), op. p. 144. [For text see Ibid., pages 143-163.]
PLANCHE VIII
Fig. 11. Hautbois 12. Coupe de hautbois.
13, 14, 15. Parties du hautbois.
PLANCHE VII
Fig. 4, 5, 9. Anciens hautbois.
H0RNS
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. IV (H-K), Plate 27.
[For an account of Horns, including the above, see Ibid., pages 365-371.]
Note: Figures 1 through 8 depicted above show horns from ca. 1572 to ca. 1776. Figures 9 through 20 show horns from ca. 1818 to ca. 1912. See text.
xcviii.
HORNS (SIGNAL INSTRUMENTS)
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. IV (H-K), Horns, op. p. 368.
PLANCHE VII
Fig. 2. Cor de chasse. a. son bocal
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767
[Figures 6 and 7]
[Figure 15]
[Figures 10, 11 and 12]
| Fig. 6. Cornet de chasse. | 7. Double cor"et. |
| 10. Basse de cornet. | 11. Dessus de cornet. |
| 12. Cornet à bout. | 15. Cornet à accords. |
ORGANS (EARLY ORGANS)
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. VI (N-Q), op. page 288 (Plate 27) . [For information on Organs see Ibid., pp. 282-324.]
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767
PLANCHE I [Orga]
Orgue en perspective & en coupe pour faire voir 1a disposition des mouvemens, &c.
PIANO FORTES
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. VI (N-Q), page 728.
SPINETS
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. VIII (Sp-Vio), op. page 6. [For brief notes on the Spinnet see ibid., p. 7.]
TRUMPETS
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. VIII (Sp-Vio), op. page 562. [For history of Trumpets see Ibid., pages 561-577.]
TRUMPETS
PLANCHE VII, Fig. 3. Trompette. b. son bocal
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767
VIOLINS
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th ed., 1954.) Vol. VIII (Sp-Vio),Frontispiece (in color). [See ibid., pages 806-812 for data on "Violin Family"]
VIOLINS — VIOLAS
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. VIII (Sp-Vio), following page 146, plate 67.
Denis Diderot, Encyclopedie Recueil de Planches, sur les Sciences, … et les Arts Mechaniques — Vol. V. Paris: 1767
| Fig. 1 Basse de viole. | 5. no. 2. Manche de la vile d'amour. |
| 2. Dessus de viole. | 6. Contre-basse. |
| 3. Pardessus de viole. | 7. Violin. |
| 4. Sourdine. | 8. Archet. |
| 5. Viole d'amour | 9. Poche avec son archet. |
| 10. Trompette marine. |
CITERN
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. VII (C-E), page 312. [For illustration see page cix following, plate 69 no. 1.]
PLUCKED AND STRUCK STRING INSTRUMENTS
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 1954.) Vol. VIII (Sp-Vio), following page 146, Plates 69 and 70.
DULCIMER
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. II (C-E), pages 799-800. [For illustration see preceding page cix, plate 69, no. 6.
INSTRUMENTS OF THE LUTE FAMILY
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. V (L-M), op. page 432.
LUTE
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. V pp.434-435.
LUTE cont'd.
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. V pp.436-437.
LUTE cont'd.
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. V pp.438-439.
MANDOLIN (MANDOLINE)
From: Eric Blom, ed. GROVE'S DICTIONARY OF MUSIC AND MUSICIANS (London & New York, 5th Edition, 1954.) Vol. V (L-M), pages 547-548.
Footnotes
AEolian harp: a stringed instrument adapted to produce musical sounds on exposure to a current of air.
1791. E. Darwin Bot. Gard. I. 181. 'You melt in dulcet chords, when Zephyr rings The Eolian Harp.' …" Oxford-English Dictionary, I, 144.)
[In Chambers' CYCLOPAEDIA (Volume I — London: 1786), there are directions for making an "AEolus's Harp"; and in Volume III, under Miscellany, Tab. II, there are two illustrations of the harp — which was made to fit in a window.]
… c. 1386. Chaucer Prol. 565'A baggepipe wel coude he blowe and soune.' …
1678Otway Friendship in F. 30. 'A Scotch Song! I hate it worse then a Scotch Bagpipe…'" (Oxford-English Dictionary I, 623.)
(1764. Grainger Sugar-Cane IV—'To the wild banshaw's melancholy sound.')
c. 1790. Dibdin, Sea-songs (title) 'The Negro and his Banjer.'
1801. Mar. Edgeworth Belinda II. xviii. 7 'What is this mama? It is not a guitar, is it?''No, my dear, it is called a banjore; it is an African instrument, of which the negroes are particularly fond.' …" (Oxford-English Dictionary, I, 652.)
1772A. Walker Specification of Patent No. 1020'The Celestina … is also made to be played by a pricked barrel, as the hand or barrel organ.'
1796Month. Rev. XX. 400. 'A barrel-organ … would do the business much more to his satisfaction than the fingers of a man of genius.' …" (Ibid., I, 681.}
1796. Morse Amer. Geog. II. 334. 'Hand organs, and other musical inventions.' …" (Ibid., V, 66.)
"Bugle 1. a. The buffalo … b. A young bull…(Ibid., I, 1161.)
2. Music. Short for Bugle-horn. a. A hunting-horn, originally made of the horn of a 'bugle' or wild ox. b. A military instrument of brass or copper, resembling the trumpet, but smaller; used as the signal-horn for the infantry. c. 1340. Gaw & Gr. Knt. 1136. 'With bugle to bent felde he buskez.' … a. 1777. F. Fawkes Virg. AEneid VII. 'Stoutly Boreas his loud bugle blew.'"
1796. Morse Amer. Geog. II. 509. 'French horns and clarinets.' …" (Oxford-English Dictionary, II, 463.)
A musical instrument with strings and keys; in its developed form resembling a square pianoforte, the tones being produced by the action on the strings of 'tangents' or small brass wedges attached in an upright position to the back of the keys.
1483. Caxton G. de la Tour K vj, 'Where his vyell and clauycordes were' …
1724Stukeley in Mem. 1882) I, 75. 'Making a clavicord with Jews trumps instead of strings.'
1740-61. Mrs. Delany Life & Corr. (1861) III, 414. 'Mary is now practising the clavicord, which I have in the dining-room.'
1769. Barrington Mozart in Phil. Trans. LX, 64. 'This great musician began to play on the clavichord when he was but seven years of age.' …" (Ibid., 471.)
1555Watreman Fardle Facions II. XI. 248. 'Thei [Tukkes] vse a dromme and a fiphe, to assemble their Bandes.' …
1674Playford Skill Mus. Pref. 5.'When he hears the sound of the Trumpet, the Fife and Drum.'
1710. Philips Pastorals, V. 52.'In thee The rudeness of my rural fife I see.' … " (Oxford-English Digtionary IV, 198.)
1. A musical wind instrument, consisting of a hollow cylinder or pipe, with holes along its length, stopped by the fingers, or by keys which are opened by the fingers. The flute of the ancients, whether single or double, was blown through a mouthpiece at the end. About the middle of the 18th cent. this was entirely superseded by the transverse or German flute, which is blown through an orifice at the side near the upper end. c. 1384. Chaucer H. Fame III, 133 'Add many flowte and liltyng horne.' … 1718. Prior Pleasure 77. 'The trumpet's sound Provok'd the Dorian flute.' 1756. T. Amory, Buncle (1825) I. 5. 'My relaxation after study was my german-flute.' (Oxford-English Dictionary, Vol. IV,p.36
"FIPPLE FLUTE. The designation Flute, as applied to modern European instruments, includes broadly all those in which the tone is produced by the breath without the use of either a reed or a cup-shaped mouthpiece. …
The recorder is a member of the flûte-à-bec family which is specially known as the flûte douce, flauto dolce and English flute, the last designation (or flûte d'Angleterre) serving to differentiate it from the German or cross-blown flute. As late as 1740 it is described… as the 'common flute' to distinguish it from the 'German flute' while at the present time the 'common flute' is the 'cross-blown' flute. (Grove's Dictionary of Music…Vol. II, 1937, pages 248-249.)
1621. B. Jonson Gipsies Metamorph. (1640) 51'Give me my Guittara, and room for our Chiefe.'
1648. Gage West Ind. viii. 23. 'Tuning his Guitarra and Singing to us some verses.' …
1700Astry tr. Saavedra-Faxardo II. 99'So delicate, like a Guitarre, that it won't bear the fingers.'
1766Goldsm. Vic. W. v. 'Mr. Thornhill… then took up the guitar.' …" (Oxford English Dictionary, IV, 500.)
1. Name of several different musical instruments.
a. An instrument invented by Dr. B. Franklin, consisting of a row of hemispherical glasses fitted on an axis turned by a treadle and dipping into a trough of water, played by the application of the finger; an improvement of the earlier 'musical glasses.' Also applied to other forms in which the tones are produced in various ways from graduated glass bowls or tubes. b. An instrument consisting of a row of glass plates mounted on a resonance-box and struck with hammers. c. A kind of mouth-organ. …
1762. Franklin Lett. Wks. 1887 III. 204. 'In honor of your musical language, I have borrowed from it the name of this instrument, calling it the Armonica.'
1778: Phil. Surv. 8. Irel. 453.'The invention of the musical glasses, now improved into the harmonica.' …" (Oxford-English Dictionary, V, 97.)
1611Cotgr., 'Harpechorde, an Arpsicord or Harpsicord; a Dulcimer.'
1664. Evelyn Diary 5 Oct.'There was brought a new-invented instrument of music being a harpsichord with gut-strings, sounding like a concert of viols with an organ.'… 1766. Pennant Zool. (1812) I. 280.'The quills of ravens sell for twelve shillings the hundred, being of great use in tuning the lower notes of a harpsichord.'
1775. Sheridan Duenna II, iii, 'Black and white alternately, just like the keys of a harpsichord.' … (Oxford-English Dictionary, V, 102.)
"Harpsichord … the most important of the group of keyed instruments that preceded the pianoforte, holding during the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries a position analogous to that now accorded to the grand pianoforte. It had a place in the orchestra as an accompanying instrument when the first opera and the first oratorio were performed (Florence and Rome, 6. 1600), and during the time of Handel and Bach was the constant support to the recitativo secco, its weak bass notes being reinforced by large lutes and viols, and ultimately by violoncellos and double basses. Towards the end of the 18th century the instrument was withdrawn, and the big fiddles were left by themselves to accompany the ordinary recitative in a fashion more peculiar than satisfactory." (Grove's Dictionary of Music and Musicians, Vol. II, 543-4.)
1575. Laneham Let. (1871) 7. 'This Pageaunt waz clozd vp with a delectable harmony of Hautbois, Shalmz, Cornets, and such oother looud muzik.'
1695. Blackmore Pr. Arth. Iv, 67. 'The lively Hoboy, and the sweet mouth'd Flute.'
1710. Steele Tatler No. 157 Par. 5.'The Hautboy is the most perfect of the Flute-species.'
1815. Elphinstone Acc. Caubul (1842) I. 281.'Drums, trumpets, hautboys, and flutes are exempted from this proscription, as being manly and warlike.' …" (Oxford-English Dictionary, V, 122.) "Oboe…adapted spelling of F. Hautbois; see Hautboy.
1. A wooden double-reed wind-instrument, forming the treble to the bassoon: — Hautboy…
c. (More fully French horn) An orchestral wind instrument of the trumpet class, developed from the hunting-horn, and consisting of a continuous tube some 17 feet in length, curved for convenience in holding, and having a wide bell and a conoidal mouthpiece.
1742Pope Dunc. iv. 278'The voice was drown'd By the French horn, or by the op'ning hound.'1753Scots Mag. Sept. 427/1. 'A band of French horns' …
d. English horn … a wind instrument of the oboe kind: * see quotes.
1838Penny Cycl. XII. 292/2'The English Horn, or Corno Inglese, is a deeper-toned oboe, but of rather larger dimensions, somewhat bent, the lower end very open.' … " (Oxford-English Dictionary, V, 386.) * Eighteenth century Virginia references to "horns," and "hunting horns; but most references were to "French horns." No references found to "English horns."]
2. spec. A musical instrument (in its modern form the largest and most comprehensive of all), consisting of a number of pipes, supplied with wind or compressed air by means of bellows, and sounded by means of keys, which on being pressed down admit the wind to the pipes by opening valves or pallets.
In the modern organ the pipes are distributed into sets or stops of various qualities of tone, the admission of wind to the several stops being controlled by handles or draw-stops, drawn in and out by hand or by mechanism worked by special pedals (combination-pedals); and the stops are arranged in groups, each separate group forming a partial organ and being controlled by a separate keyboard; these are usually from two to five in number, one of the keyboards consisting of pedals played with the feet, the rest being manuals played with the hands; these can be connected in various ways by couplers so as to sound together. …
The instrument has of course undergone immense changes since the 4th c., when it is first referred to in L. writers, and even since the date of the earliest Eng. references. According to Grove's Dict. of Mus. II. 576, 'At the commencement of the 8th c. the use of the organ was appreciated, and the art of making it was known in England.' …" (Oxford-English Dictionary, VII, 192-193.)
See Grove's Dictionary of Music, Vol. III, pages 734-764 for history of the organ —its origin and development.
1767Play-bill of Theatre Royal Covt. Gard. 16 May. 'At the end of Act I., Miss Brickler will sing a favourite song from 'Judith', accompanied by Mr. Dibdin on a new instrument called Piano Forte.'
1767. Sterne, Lett. lxxxv. Wks. (1839) 770/1. 'Your pianoforte must be tuned from the brass middle string of your guitar, which is C.'
1768Mme. D'Arblay Early Diary Aug., 'He asked papa if he play'd much on piano fortes.' …" (Oxford-English Dictionary, VII, 814.)
a. 1664Pepys Diary 1 July.'One Cheswicke, a master who plays very well upon the Spinette.'
1686 tr. Chardin's Trav. Persia 229. 'When the Spinette came they set it upon the Table in the midst of the Room.' …
b. 1696H Purcell (title)'A Choice Collection of Lessons for the Harpsichord or Spinnet.'
1713Swift Cadenus & Vanesse Wks. 1751. III. ii. 27. 'When miss delights in her spinnet, A fiddler may a fortune get.' … " (Oxford-English Dictionary, X, 608.)
The natural tones of the instrument are the series of harmonics produced by varying force of breath; in modern forms of it additional tones are obtained by means of slides, crooks, valves, or keys.
… 1390Gower Conf. III, 217. 'Ech of hem ek a trompette Bar in his other hond.'
… 1535Coverdale Ezek. xxxiii, 4.'Yff a man now heare the noyse off the trompet & will not be warned.'
… 1788Gibbon Decl, & F. xli, II. 506.'The general's trumpet gave the signal of departure.' … "
(Oxford-English Dictionary, XI, 422.)
1759Spenser Sheph. Cal., April 103, 'I see Calliope speede her to the place, where my Goddesse shines: And after her the other Muses trace, with their Violines.' …
…1608B. Jonson Masques Wks. (1616) 964'The first [dance] was to the Cornets, the second to the Vyolines.'
1618Bolton Florus (1636) 115'Some excellently pleasing lesson plaid upon soft winde-instruments, or Violins.'
1660Pepys Diary 6 Mar., 'I played upon a viall, and he a viallin, after dinner.'
1711Steele Spect. No. 258 Par. 4'Violins, Voices, or any other Organs of Sound.' …
b. With distinguishing terms.
1601B. Jonson Poetast. III, iv.'Come, He must haue you turne fiddler againe, slaue, get a base violin at your backe.'
c. 1670Wood Life (O.H.S.) I, 212.'Before the restoration of K. Charles 2 and especially after, viols began to be out of fashion, and only violins used, as treble-violin, tenor and bass-violin.' …
1728. Chambers Cycl. s.v.'The Word Violin, alone, stands for Treble Violin.' … "(Oxford-English Dictionary XII, 225.)
1. A stringed instrument of music; usually, the violin, but also (with defining word as in bass fiddle) applied to other instruments of the viol kind. Now only in familiar or contemptuous use.
c. 1205 …
1535Coverdale I Sam. xviii. 6.'With tymbrels, with myrth, and with fyddels.'
…1740. Somerville Hobbinol I, 323.'Shrill Fiddles squeak Hoarse Bag-pipes roar.' …" (Ibid., Iv, 188.)
a. 1483. Caxton G. de la Tour k vj.'Syre Geffroy called hym before hym and demaunded hym where his vyell and clauycordes were.' …
1626Bacon Sylva #102'If any Man think that the String of the Bow, and the String of the Viall, are neither of them Equall Bodies, … he is in an Errour.'1664. Pepys Diary 28 Sept., 'So home, and find Mercer playing on her Vyall, which is a pretty instrument.'
1684. Bunyan Pilgr. II (1847) 336'Christiana … could play upon the Vial. ' …" (Oxford-English Dictionary XII, 219.)