the research microsite

Return to Explore the Rockefeller Library Collections page

Peter Pelham: An early American keyboard tutor(1745)

  • MS 2003.7
  • 34 pp.

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

King George’s march — Minuet — Allmand — Minuet / Valentine — The modest question / set by Russel — Thro’ the wood laddie — Gavotte / Handel — A song in the masque of Comus — Minuet / Lully — No. 5 from Water music ; No. 11 from Water music / Handel, arr. Pelham — Minuet / Pelham — A song on a lady of quality / Marchant — A song in the masque of Comus / Arne — Combatti da forte : in the opera of Rinaldo / Handel — A song set to musick by Mr. Chas. Th’re. Pachelbel — The happy shepherd / Greene — Bonny Jean : a Scotch tune / trad. — Allexis: a cantata / Pepush [sic] — Aria —.

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

Sample Page

Back to Library