DANIEL READ
Daniel Read (b. Attleborough, Mass., 16 Nov. 1757; d. New Haven, Conn., 4 Dec. 1836) was a composer, singing master, comb-maker, and storekeeper. He served in the Connecticut militia during the Revolutionary War and in 1782 settled in New Haven. There he operated a dry goods store, at first specializing in 'ivory and horn combs' that he made himself and later branching out to include more general merchandise. He began composing in 1774 or before and in 1782 contributed music to Jocelin and Doolittle's The Chorister's Companion (New Haven). His own first tunebook, The American Singing Book (New Haven, 1785), made up entirely of his own compositions, contained several tunes that became favorites and was widely plagiarized by other compilers. In 1786-87 he and Amos Doolittle collaborated to publish The American Musical Magazine, the first musical periodical on this side of the Atlantic. An astute businessman, Read published his own works, though he hired others to print them. He composed little after 1800, and in later life his study of European musical principles convinced him that, as he wrote in 1829, 'the music which was published by myself and others between the years 1772 and 1810, although well received by the publick and pronounced good by . . . the best judges of that period, was chiefly ephemeral; it has had its day and is gone.' The New Haven Colony Historical Society owns more than 900 of Read's letter drafts-numbered by Read and referred to by those numbers in the entries below-and two large collections of manuscript music in his hand, one dated 1774-77 and the other completed in 1832.
Amerigrove, Baker's, Bio-bib, DAB, Grove, Metcalf. Also Bushnell 1978; Lowens 1952, rev. in Lowens 1964, p. 159-77.
See No. 170.
THE AMERICAN SINGING BOOK, 1785-96
The American Singing Book, [1st ed.], 1785
ASMI 411
The American Singing Book; or A New and Easy Guide to the Art of Psalmody. Designed for the use of singing schools in America. Containing in a plain and familiar manner, the rules of psalmody, together with a number of psalm tunes, &c. Composed by Daniel Read, Philo Musico.
Sing ye praises with understanding. Psalm XLVII. 7.
New Haven: printed for and sold by the author. 1785.
72, [1] p. 11.5 x 18.5 cm. p. 5-8, 25-72 engraved [probably by Amos Doolittle]. See note above, under Doolittle.
New-HavenGazette, 26 May 1785, advertises work as just published (ad dated 24 May). p. [1], t-p.; p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3], dedication "To the Teachers of Music in the United States'; p. [4], 'Advertisement'; p. 5-8, 'Concise Rules'; p. 9-24, 'A full and plain Explanation of the foregoing Rules'; p. 25-72, music; p. [73], 'Index.' 'Scripture . . . informs us, that all the Duties of the Christian Church should be performed with Decency and in Order; and Singing being an important Part of Divine Worship, claims particular Attention, and ought to be conducted with great Propriety. This, however, will be impracticable, unless the Rules of Psalmody are well understood, and closely adhered to. Hence the Necessity of Schools for the Instruction of Children and Youth, in this pleasing Art, and hence I have been induced to publish the Contents of the following Sheets, wherein I have endeavoured to lay down the Rules of Psalmody, in as plain and familiar a Manner as possible. I have also added a Number of Psalm Tunes, &c. in all the Variety of Keys, Moods of Time, &c. necessary to be taught in Schools, and in all the different Metres most commonly used in the worshipping Assemblies of America. [New par.] That this Book might be afforded at a low Price I have not inserted a large Number of Tunes and Anthems, yet perhaps sufficient for the Use of common Singing Schools.' (Extract from Preface.)
49 compositions, incl. 1 anthem & 1 set-piece, for 4 voices; full text. T-p. attribs. all to Read. 48 1st pr. identified (only STAFFORD pr. earlier). All are American.
7 Core Repertory (1st pr. CALVARY, JUDGMENT, LISBON, SHERBURNE, WINDHAM, WINTER).
E19213 (MiU-C). CSmH (marked 'Joseph Stone's copy'), CtY, DLC, MIU-C", NN (7 1. of blank staves bound in at end), NhHi.
The American Singing Book, 2d ed., 1786
ASMI 412
The American Singing Book... The second edition, corrected. New-Haven: printed for and sold by the author. M.DCC.LXXXVI.
72, [1] p. p. 5-8, 25-72 engraved.
Contents same as 1st ed. (No. 411). Engraved portions printed from same plates as 1st ed.
Music same as 1st ed.
E44957 (MB). CtHT-W, MB (front matter inc.), MWA".
NOTE: Evans posits a 2d ed. dated 1788 (E21416) from an advertisement in the New Haven Connecticut Journal, 2 Jan. 1788; however, he found no copy.
The American Singing Book, Supplement, (1787)
ASMI 413
Supp Supplement To The American Singing Book: containing twenty-five approved psalm tunes, from different authors[.] New-Haven: printed and sold by Daniel Read, at his house in Broadway, (Price is 4d.) where may be had the American Singing Book, and the American Musical Magazine.
1 p.1., 5-8, 16 p. 1 p. 5-8, 1-16 engraved [probably by Amos Doolittle].
[1787.] The Preface to the 3d ed., dated 1 Nov. 1787, mentions the separate availability of the Supplement. p.l. recto, t-p.; verso, 'Index'; p. 5-8, 'Concise Rules'; p. 1-16, music. p. 5-8, 1st group, printed from same plates as The American Singing Book (No. 411).
25 compositions for 4 voices; most w. partial text. Attribs, to Billings (3), Brownson (2), Bull, Carpenter (2), Edson (3), Read (5), Stephenson (3), Swan (2). 1 1st pr. identified (PROVIDENCE). 19 American compositions, 6 non-American (18 attrib. Americans, 1 traced [NORWICH); 3 attrib. non-Americans, 3 traced).
18 Core Repertory.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). Ct (lacks front matter), DLC.
The American Singing Book, 3d ed., 1787, with Supplement
ASMI 414
The American Singing Book; or A New and Easy Guide to the Art of Psalmody . . . . To which is added, a Supplement, containing twenty-five approved psalm tunes, from different authors. By Daniel Read, Philo-Musico. The third edition. New-Haven: printed for, and sold by the author. M,DCC, LXXXVII. [
[2d t-p.] Supplement To The American Singing Book . . . New Haven: printed and sold by Daniel Read.
72, [2] p., 11., 16 p. p. 5-8, 25-72, 1-16 engraved [probably by Amos Doolittle].
Preface dated New-Haven, 1 Nov. 1787.1 p. [1], t-p.; p. [2] blank; p. [3]-[4], 'Preface'; p. 5-8, "Concise Rules'; p. 9-24, "A full and plain Explanation of the foregoing Rules'; p. 25-72, music; p. [73]. 'Index'; p. [74] blank; 1. recto, 2d t-p.; verso, 'Index' to Supplement; p. 1-16, music. The substance of the contents of the following sheets was published about two years ago, with a design of furnishing singing schools in this, and the neighbouring states with a system of rules particularly calculated for their use, as well as to present them with a number of psalm tunes, &c. for the use of publick worship. And from the sale of the two editions already published, I am ready to conclude, that my labours have not been altogether in vain, but that the publick, or at least those schools and societies who have made use of them, have reaped some advantage thereby. From this consideration, I am induced to offer the publick this third edition, with out making any considerable alterations, either in the rules or music, which would have occasioned confusion in those schools which were partly supplied with this, and partly with the former editions. I have, however, at the request of a number of gentlemen, who have been so good as to favour me with their correspondence, added by way of supplement, a small collection of approved psalm tunes from different authors; which I hope will in some measure obviate an objection which some persons have made to the former editions, on account of the similarity, or want of variety, which they suppose are always found in pieces of music, set by one and the same author. [New par.] In the rules, explanations, &c. which preceed the music, I have not attempted to say any thing upon musical composition, because I considered it as a subject of sufficient magnitude to fill a volume of itself; and because I apprehend but few of those who attend common singing schools, (for whose use this book is principally designed) do it with a view of attaining to the knowledge of the rules of composition.... [New par.] N.B. Those persons who have the first or second editions of this book, may, if they chuse, be furnished with the supplement separately, by applying to the Author.' (Extract from Preface.) p. 5-8, 25-72 printed from same plates as 1st ed. (No. 411); p. 1-16 printed from same plates as Supplement (No. 413). Music on p. 25-72 same as 1st ed.; music on p. 1-16 same as Supplement. E20673 (CtY). Ct (b.w. Jocelin, The Chorister's Companion, New Haven, 1782), CtY*.
NOTE: Evans posits a 3d ed. dated [1792?] (E24729) from an advertisement in the New Haven Connecticut Journal, 7 Nov. 1792; however, he found no copy.
The American Singing Book, 4th ed., (1793)
ASMI 415
The American Singing Book; or A New and Easy Guide to the Art of Psalmody. . . . To which is added, a Supplement. . . The fourth edition. New-Haven: printed for, and sold by the author.--- Of whom may be had, The Child's Instructor in vocal Music, containing a Series of familiar Dialogues, &c.
72, [2] p., 11., 16 р. р. 5-8, 25-72, 1-16 engraved.
[1793.] Prefatory note dated New-Haven, 24 Jan. 1793. p. [1], t-p.; p. [2], copyright notice ('N.B. The Author has secured the Copy Right to this Book, agreeable to the Statute of the United States."); p. [3]. prefatory note "To The Publick'; p. [4] blank; rest of contents same as 3d ed. From the sale of the three former editions of this Book, the Author is encouraged to publish the fourth, without any alterations, except the correcting of such errors as have been discovered. [New par.] He expects, in the course of a few months, to publish a New Singing Book, entitled, The Columbian Harmonist. (Extract from prefatory note.) p. 5-8, 25-72 printed from same plates as 1st ed. (No. 411); p. 1-16 printed from same plates as Supplement (No. 413).
74 compositions, incl. 1 anthem & 1 set-piece, for 4 voices; most w. full text, some w. partial text. Attribs, to Billings (3), Brownson (2), Bull, Carpenter (2), Edson (3), Read (5), Stephenson (3), Swan (2). No 1st pr. identified. 68 American compositions, 6 non-American (18 attrib. Americans, 50 traced; 3 attrib. non-Americans, 3 traced [AYLESBURY, COLCHESTER, PLYMOUTH]).
25 Core Repertory.
E26036 (MHi). Ct, CLY, DLC, ICN (music inc.), MHI, MIU-C.
The American Singing Book, 5th ed., [1796]
ASMI 416
The American Singing Book; or A New and Easy Guide to the Art of Psalmody. . . . which is added, a Supplement . . . The fifth edition. New-Haven: printed for, and sold by the author, of whom may be had, the Columbian Harmonist and the Child's Instructor in vocal Music. (Published according to act of Congress.
84+ p. p. 7-8, 25-84 engraved.
[1796.] By 3 Sept. 1796 Read was delivering copies of this edition to New York City bookseller Samuel Campbell (Letters, 227; Bushnell 1978, p. 173n.). The New Haven Connecticut Herald, 19 Oct. 1796, advertises the work. p. [1], t-p.; p. [2] blank; p. 3-6 missing: p. 7-8, rudiments; p. 9-24, 'A full and plain Explanation of the foregoing Rules'; p. 25-84, music. p. 7-8, 25-72 printed from same plates as 1st ed (No. 411); p. 73-84 printed from same plates as p. 1-12 of Supplement (No. 413), with p. numbers changed.
Music assumed to be same as 4th ed. (No. 415), except that copy is incomplete.
E29388, wrongly dated [1795] (no copy on Readex). NcWsM. The only copy located lacks p. [3]-6 and all after p. 84. Since p. 73-84 are the same as p. 1-12 of the Supplement bound with the 3d & 4th eds., it is assumed that a full copy would contain music through p. 88. The index might then have followed p. 88, or it might have been on one of the missing earlier pages (3-6).
THE COLUMBIAN HARMONIST, 1793-1810
Read first issued The Columbian Harmonist in three forty-page 'numbers,' each with its own special content. No. 1 (1793) was devoted to new psalm-tunes composed by Americans, No. 2 (1794) to the most popular psalm-tunes then in circulation, and No. 3 (1795) primarily to anthems and set-pieces. After all three were published, Read eliminated the musical instructions from No. 2, changed the pagination of Nos. 2 and 3, prepared a comprehensive index, and made the three numbers available in one consecutively paged volume. However, individual numbers were still sold separately, and No. 2, obviously the best-selling portion, was given two supplements of 'Additional Music' by 1801. In 1804 Read reorganized The Columbian Harmonist into a single large tunebook and brought it out Thus, all of the various numbers which appeared before that time are described here as parts of the first edition. An unauthorized 'third' edition appeared in 1806, followed by Read's own third and fourth editions in 1807 and 1810. 'second edition."
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 1, (1793)
ASMI 417
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 1[.] Containing First. A plain and concise introduction to psalmody fitly calculated for the use of singing schools. Second. A choice collection of new psalm tunes of American composition[.] By Daniel Read author of the American Singing Book[.] New Haven: printed for & sold by the editor[.] Sold also by R. Atwell & by the principal book sellers in the United States (Coppy right secured agreeable to the statute)
39, [1] p., 41. 11 x 18.5 cm. Engraved throughout; p. [40] signed by A[mos] Doolittle.
[1793.] Copyright granted, 1 May 1793, District of Connecticut, to Read as author (New Haven, Connecticut Journal, 8 May 1793). Connecticut Journal, to July 1793, advertises work as just published. p. [1], t-p.; p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-8, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction to Psalmody, fitly calculated for the use of Singing Schools'; p. [9], caption title, 'A Choice Collection of new Psalm Tunes'; p. [9]-39, music; p. [40], 'Index' & engraver's colophon; 4 1. of blank staves. It has been the endeavour of the Editor to make the Columbian Harmonist a useful Publication. If the introductory part is not suficiently plain for those who have not the advantage of an able Instructor, they are requested to study the American Singing Book, or the Childs Instructor in vocal Music. (Preface in full.)
33 compositions for 4 voices (1 for 3); some w. full text, some w. partial text, i textless. Attribs. to Atwell (2), Camp, Canfield (3), Caswell (3), Coan (6), J. Munson, R. Munson, Peck (2), D. Read, W. Read. 33 1st pr. identified. All are American (21 attrib. Americans; 12 traced to Americans).
No Core Repertory.
E26057 (MWA). Ct, CtY (3), ICN (front matter inc.), InGo, MH, MHi, MWA, MiU-C, NcWsM, OCIWR (music inc.).
ASMI 417A
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 1... New Haven: printed for & sold by the editor[.] Sold also by the principal book-sellers in the United States (Coppy right secured agreeable to the statute).
39. [1] p., 41. Engraved throughout.
[1793-94-] The main entry lists R. Atwell on the t-p. as a seller. Read's correspondence shows that in the spring of 1793 he was negotiating with Atwell to sell books for him in the South, but in October the proposed partnership was dissolved (Letters, 60 & 62). Subsequently Atwell's name was removed from the t-p. Contents same as main entry. Printed from same plates as main entry.
Music same as main entry.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). CtY (2; 1 b.w. 'Additional Music' to No. 2); DLC, ICN (lacks blank sta staves), NjPT, RPB.
ASMI 417B
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 1[.] Containing . . . Second. A choice collection of sacred music for public and social worship. By Daniel Read . . . New Haven: printed for & sold by the editor[.] Sold also by the principal book-sellers in the United States (Coppy right secured agrecable to the statute).
39. [1] p. Engraved throughout.
[1803 or later?] The t-p., which in the 1st issue and the 1st variant had promised 'Second. A collection of new psalm tunes of American composition, now describes the music as Second. A choice collection of sacred music for public and social worship'-the same description Read applied to the music in his The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2. The No. 1 on the t-p. plate is very crudely engraved over a No. 2, with the shadow of the 2 still visible. Vinson Bushnell points out that the t-p. for Nos. 1 & 2 was printed from the same plate, with only the numbers changed (Bushnell 1978, p. 147). He adds, in a personal communi-cation to Richard Crawford, Feb. 1974, that the No. 2 in the background behind the No. 1 in this issue is the angular numeral that appeared in issues of No. 2 printed as late as 1803. Therefore, Bushnell dates this issue as 1803 or later. See No. 2, below (No. 418), for more information. Contents same as main entry. Printed from same plates as main entry.
Music same as main entry.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). RPB (b.w. 2 1. of blank staves).
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2, [1794]
ASMI 418
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2[.] Containing First. A plain and concise introduction to psalmody fitly calculated for the use of singing schools. Second. A choice collection of sacred music for public and social worship. By Daniel Read author of the American Singing Book[.] New Haven: printed for & sold by the editor[.] Sold also by the principal book-sellers in the United States (Coppy right secured agreeable to the statute).
39. [1] p., 41. Engraved throughout [possibly by Amos Doolittle]. See note above, under Doolittle.
[Dec. 1794-) The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 4 Dec. 1794, advertised the work as in preparation. On 1 Jan. 1795 Read wrote Nathan Thayer, a singing master, that he was sending him copies of No. 2. (See Lowens 1964, p. 164; see also Letters, 116.) p. [1], t-p.; p. (2), 'Preface'; p. [3]-8, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction to Psalmody, fitly calculated for the use of Singing Schools'; p. 9-39, music, p. [40], 'Index'; 4 1. of blank staves. p. 1-8 printed from same plates as No. 1 (No. 417); p. 17-32 printed from same plates as Read, Supplement to the American Singing Book (1787), p. 1-16 (No. 413), with the pages renumbered. Vinson Bushnell believes that the t-p. of The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2, was printed from the same plate as No. 1's t-p. (Bushnell 1978, p. 147). He points out that, once Read altered the t-p. description of the music in No. 1 from 'new psalm tunes of American composition' to 'sacred music for public and social worship, and once he removed R. Arwell' from the imprint (Bushnell 1978, p. 155 & n., 156n.), the title-pages of the two items overlay perfectly, differing only in their number designation. By comparing copies, Bushnell in a personal communication to Richard Crawford, February 1974, reports 'evidence for several switches of the number back & forth. The first 1 was professionally done, the first 2 also. Then it must have been changed to a again, and I have seen no exemplar to tell whether it professional or amateur job. By the time CH2 with Additional Music was being issued [1798] the 2 was in a crude version. The variant of CH 1... [see No. 4178] has the crude 2 effaced (incompletely) to make a 1 again.'
49 compositions for 4 voices; some w. full text, some w. partial text. No attribs.2 1st pr. claimed; 2 identified. 34 traced to American sources, 15 to non-American (ANGELS HYMN, AYLESBURY, BATH, COLCHESTER, GLOUCESTER, LITTLETON, MEAR, MIL-FORD, OLD 100, PLYMOUTH, PSALMS 3. 34. WANTAGE, WELLS, WINDSOR).
32 Core Repertory.
RPB. E29390 (MWA). Copies in CtHi, CtY, ICN (music inc.), MWA" (b.w. Nos. 1 & 3),
ASMI 418A
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2 . . .
39. [1] p., 4 1., printed covers. p. 1-39, [40]. 51. engraved.
[1795-97.] Since the printed back cover recommends The Columbian Harmonist, No. 3, which appeared in the spring of 1795, it could not have been published earlier. And since Read changed the pagination of No. 2 when, in 1797, he bound it with Nos. 1 and 3, it could not have appeared later. Front cover printed; verso blank; p. 1-[40] same as in main entry; 4 1. of blank staves; back cover recto blank; verso, note. Front cover fixes price at 45 Cents. "Those who object to purchasing this book because it contains tunes before published, are requested to make use of the First Number, which contains a collection of tunes never before published. And those who think anthems a necessary part of a collection of music, are desired to peruse the Third Number, which contains anthems and set pieces, suitable for Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, Fasts, Thanksgivings, Funerals &c &c &c.' (Back cover note in full.) Engraved portion printed from same plates as main entry.
Music same as main entry.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). DLC, MB (lacks blank staves), NjPT, RPB,
ASMI 418B
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2. A Choice Collection of Sacred Music; &c.
41-71, [1] p. Engraved throughout.
[1797.] The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 13 Sept. 1797, announced as available ´The Columbian Harmonist, three Numbers in one vol. Bound . . . [which] consists of 112 pages. In this issue the eight-page introduction is removed and the numbers of p. 9-39 of the original issue are changed to accommodate it for binding into the three-part 112-p. edition. p. 41, caption title; p. 41-71, music; p. [72], The Index, to No. 2. Printed from same plates as p. 9-39 of main entry; pages renumbered.
Music same as main entry.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). All known copies b.w. The Columbian Harmonist, Nos. 1, 2 & 3, q.v. (No. 422A).
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2, with Additional Music, [1798]
ASMI 419
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2 . . . (Coppy right secured agreeable to the statute)
8, 41-71, [1] p., 4 unnumbered 1. Engraved throughout [possibly by Amos Doolittle].
[1798] In a letter of 16 July 1798 (Letters, 344) Read wrote that additional music for The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2, was being engraved. The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 3 Oct. 1798, announced for sale "The Second Number of the Columbian Harmonist, with an addition of five Tunes and one Anthem, (without any addition to the price). p. [1], t-p.; p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-8, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction to Psalmody... p. 41. caption title, The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2'; p. 41-71, music, p. [72]. "The Index, to No. 2'; 1st 1., caption title, 'Additional Music'; 1. 1-4, music. p. 1-8, 41-[72] printed from same plates as 1st issue (No. 418); pages renumbered.
Music on p. 41-71 same as 1st issue. ` contains: 6 compositions, incl. 1 anthem, for 4 voices; full text. Attrib, to A. Munson. 2 1st pr. identified (DOMINION, NEWBURGH). 16 American compositions (1 attrib. American, 5 traced).
1 Core Repertory.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). MB, MWA (b.w. 4 additional blank 1.), NcWsM.
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2, with Additional Music, [1801]
ASMI 420
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2... (Coppy right secured agreeable to the statute)
8 ,41-74, (1), 16 p. Engraved throughout [possibly by Amos Doolittle).
[1801.] Read's letter of 13 Aug. 1801 (Letters, 548) mentions the availability of a group of tunes which comprise p. 9-16 of this issue. A 16-page issue of Additional Music is first mentioned on 30 Sept. 1801 (Letters, 556). The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 29 Oct. 1801, advertises The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2, (With 16 pages of additional Music, chiefly new) The additional Music may be had seperately, Price 25 Cents. Contents same as 1798 issue (No. 419) through p. [72]; p. 1, caption title, 'Additional Music'; p 1-16, music. The Tune called Agusta in the Additional Music, was engrav'd before the Editor had seen it in an English Publication where it has appeared in a different form. (Note added to Preface.) p. 1-8, 41-[72] printed from same plates as 1st issue (No. 418); p. 1-8, 2d group, printed from same plates as 1. 1-4 of [1798] issue (No. 419).
Music on p. 41-71 same 1st issue. Additional Music now contains: 14 compositions, ind. 1 anthem, for 4 voices; full text. Attribs. to Doolittle (3), Harrison, A. Munson (2). 16 1st pr. identified (ARGYLE, ARMENIA, CANADA, CHRISTMAS, EDENTON, SPRING), also a 1st Am. pr. (AGUSTA, CANAAN). 12 American compositions, I non-American, unidentified [CANAAN) (5 attrib. Americans, 7 traced; 1 attrib. non-American).
No Core Repertory.
The cumulative total for the music in Read's CH 2 with 16 pages of Additional Music stands as follows: 63 compositions, incl. 1 anthem, for 4 voices; some w. full text, some w. partial text. Attribs. to Doolittle (3), Harrison, A. Munson (2). No ist pr. Identified. 46 American compositions, 16 non-American, 1 unidentified [CANAAN] (5 attrib. Amer-icans, 41 traced; 1 attrib. non-American, 15 traced [see CH 2, No. 418]).
32 Core Repertory.
Not in Evans or Shaw-Shoemaker (no copy on Readex). CtHi (lacks blank staves), DLC, MWA (Additional Music inc.; lacks blank staves).
NOTE: A personal communication from Vinson Bushnell reports: 'A notice in the Connecticut Journal of December 1, 1803 informed that the CH II had just been reprinted. From the price it appears to be the CH II with the sixteen pages of Additional Music described above, and as no new additions or improvements were mentioned, it is likely there were none." Bushnell also points out that the Read Letters (851a, 851b) mention printings of No. 2 'from its original plates, by now badly worn' as late as Dec. 1805. See also Bushnell 1978, p. 255. 298.
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 3. [1795)
ASMI 421
The Columbian Harmonist No. III. Containing a collection of anthems and set-pieces of music chiefly new. [At bottom of page:] New Haven: published according to act of Congress by D. Read author of the American Singing Book.
39. [1] p. Engraved throughout [possibly by Amos Doolittle]. See note above, under Doolittle.
[1795] The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 9 March 1795, carried the copyright notice of The Columbian Harmonist, No. 3, adding "The above Book will probably be ready for Sale next Month. On 19 June Read shipped copies to New York City (Letters, 142). The Connecticut Journal, 13 Feb. 1794, had advertised: Just Published, And to be sold by Daniel Read, price 6 d. Two Pieces of Music; Never before published in America, viz. An Anthem for Christmas, Composed Chiefly by that great master of music, the immortal Handel. - And a Piece for Good Friday-entirely new. The pieces described appear on p. 9-16 of The Columbian Harmonist, No. III, indicating that a portion of the work was engraved and issued separately more than a year before the whole. p. [1], caption title, printer's colophon; p. 1-39, music; p. [40], 'Index to No. III' & 'Explanation of some of the Terms used in Music."
13 compositions, incl. 6 anthems & 2 set-pieces, for 4 voices (1 for 3), some with indications of instrumental accompaniment.; full text. Attrib. to Handel. 6 1st pr. identified (Anthems: Hear our prayer, I know that my redeemer, It is better, O be joyful; CYPRESS, HAMSHIRE). 19 American compositions, 4 non-American (9 traced to Americans; t attrib. non-American, 3 traced [Anthem: There were shepherds; DENMARK, SAVANNAH]). Core Repertory.
E29391 (MWA). CIY, DLC. (MWA copy b.w. Nos. 1 & 2).
ASMI 421A
The Columbian Harmonist No. III. . . . New Haven: published according to act of Congress by D. Read author of the American Singing Book
73-111, [1] p. Engraved throughout.
[1797.] This issue is printed from the same plates as the main entry; only the page numbers are changed. The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 13 Sept. 1797, advertises the availability of a 112-p. edition of The Columbian Harmonist (see below, No. 422A), of which this is the third part. Contents same as main entry.
Music same as main entry.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). All known copies b.w. The Columbian Harmonist, Nos. 1, 2 & 3 (No. 422, q.v.).
The Columbian Harmonist, Nos. 1, 2, 3. (1795)
ASMI 422
The Columbian Harmonist, No 1 . . .
[2d t-p.] The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2. . . .
[3d t-p.] The Columbian Harmonist No. 3 . . .
39. [1]. 39. [1]. 39. [1] p., 81. Engraved throughout.
[1795] Late in June 1795 Read shipped two dozen copies of the combined Columbian Harmonist to Philadelphia (Letters, 145). The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 9 Sept. 1795 advertised, "Lately published . . . The Columbian Harmonist, in 3 Nos. p. [1], t-p.; p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-8, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction. . . . ´; p. [9], caption title, 'A Choice Collection of new Psalm Tunes '; p. [9]-39, music; p. [40], 'Index' Index & & engraver's colophon: p. [1], 2d t-p.; p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-8, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction . . .´; p. 9. caption title, ´The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2. A Choice Collection of Sacred Music; &c´. p. 9-39, music; p. [40], 'Index'; p. [1], caption title, 'The Columbian Harmonist No. III.'; p. 1-39, music; p. [40], 'Index to No. III.' & 'Explanation of some of the Terms used in Music'; 8 l. of blank staves. Printed from same plates as1ist issues of No. 1 (No. 417), No. 2 (No. 418), No. 3 (No. 421).
95 compositions, incl. 6 anthems & 2 set-picces, for 4 voices (1 for 3), some with indications of instrumental accompaniment; most w. full text, some w. partial text. Attribs. to Atwell (2), Billings (2), Camp, Canfield (3), Caswell (3), Coan (6), Handel (2), Madan, J. Munson, R. Munson, Peck (2), Read (7), D. Read, W. Read, Williams. No 1st pr. identified. 76 American compositions, 19 non-American (31 attrib. Americans, 45 traced; 3 attrib, non-Americans, 16 traced).
33 Core Repertory.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). MWA, NRU-Mus (No. 2 lacks p. 1-8).
ASMI 422A
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 1[.] Containing . . . Second. A choice collection of new psalm tunes of American composition[.] . . . Sold also by the principal book-sellers in the United States (Coppy right secured agreeable to the statute)
111, 3 p., 31. All except p. [113]-[14] engraved.
[1797] The New Haven Connecticut Journal, 13 Sept. 1797, announced as available 'The Columbian Harmonist, three Numbers in one vol. bound . . . [which] consists of 112 pages.´ p. [1], tp. p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-8, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction . . . p. 9-39, music, p. [40], 'Index' & engraver's colophon; p. 41, caption title, ´The Columbian Harmonist, No. 2'; p. 41-71, music; p. [72], 'The Index. to No. 2'; p. 73, caption title, 'The Columbian Harmonist No. III'; p. 73-111, music, p. [112], 'Index to No. III' & 'Explanation of some of the Terms used in Music'; p. [113-14], 'A General Index To The Music In The Three Numbers Of The Columbian Harmonist, With The Names Of The Authors'; 31. of blank staves. p. [1]-[40] printed from same plates as 1st variant of No. 1 (No. 417A); p. 41-[72] from same plates as 2d variant of No. 2 (No. 4188); p. 73-[112] from same plates as variant of No. 3 (No. 421A).
95 compositions, incl. 6 anthems & 2 set-pieces, for 4 voices (1 for 3), some with indications of instrumental accompaniment; most w. full text, some w. partial text. Attribs. to Atwell (2), Billings (5), Brownson (2), Bull, Camp, Canfield (3), Carpenter (2), Caswell (3), Coan (6), Edson (3), Hall, Handel (2), Madan, Morgan, Munson (2), Peck (2), Read (37), Smith [American), Stephenson (3), Swan (2), Williams (6). No 1st pr. identified. 76 American compositions, 19 non-American (74 attrib. Americans, 2 traced [NEW HUNDRED, NORWICH); 12 attrib. non-Americans, 7 traced).
33 Core Repertory.
E29389 (MWA). CHI, CIY, MWA, MIU-C (music inc.), RPJCB.
ASMI 422B
The Columbian Harmonist, No. 1. . . (Coppy right secured agreeable to the statute)
39. [1], 8, 41-71, [1] p., 41, 39, [1] p. Engraved throughout.
[1798.] The Columbian Harmonist No. 2, w. Additional Music (41.), which comprises the ad part of this issue, s not published until 1798. Contents same as previous issue through P. [40] (No. 417A); same as No. 2 with Additional Music, [1798] through the 4th 1. (No. 419); same as No. 3, 1st issue [1795] (No. 421) thereafter. Engraved portions printed from same plates as those issues.
101 compositions, incl. 7 anthems & 2 set-pieces, for 4 voices (1 for 3); most w. full text.Attribs. to Atwell (2), Billings (2), Camp, Canfield (3), Caswell (3), Coan (6), Handel (2), Madan, A. Munson, J. Munson, R. Munson, Peck (2), Read (7), D. Read, W. Read, Williams. No 1st pr. identified. 82 American compositions, 19 non-American (31 attrib. Americans, 51 traced; 4 attrib. non-Americans, 15 traced).
34 Core Repertory.
Not in Evans (no copy on Readex). ICN.
The Columbian Harmonist, 2d ed., 1804 [i.e., 1805]
ASMI 423
The Columbian Harmonist, containing a plain and concise introduction to psalmody, expressly calculated for the use of singing schools; together with a choice collection of sacred music, for public and social worship. The second edition, corrected and improved. By Daniel Read, author of the American Singing-Book. Published according to act of Congress. Printed, typographically, at Dedham, by H. Mann. Sold by D. Read, (the editor) in New Haven, Con. J. Read, Attleboro'; Mass.; E. Duyckinck, bookseller, No. 110, Pearl-Street, New York; B. & J. Homans, booksellers, Boston; and by H. Mann, at his bookstore, Dedham.-1804.
94. [2] p.
[1805.] Copyright granted, 6 Nov. 1804, District of Connecticut, to Read as author and proprietor; however, despite the t-p. date, the work was not published until 1805. Read himself first received copies early in April (Letters, 816; see also Bushnell 1978, p. 292), and not until 25 April, in the New Haven Connecticut Journal was the work advertised for sale. p. [1], tp. p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-8, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction to Psalmody'; p. [9], 'Explanation of some of the Terms used in Music'; p. [10] blank; p. [11]-94, music; p. [95], 'Index'; p. [96], copyright notice & 'Errata.' 'Some years ago the Editor of the following pages published, in three numbers, under the title of the Columbian Harmonist, an Introduction to Psalmody, with a Collection of Psalm Tunes and Anthems, which he has some reason to believe met with extensive approbation. It is however found, that as in other things, so in Psalmody, fashions are continually changing, and that some tunes, which, a few years ago, were much esteemed, are now laid aside, and others introduced in their stead. It has therefore become proper to omit in this Edition, some of the tunes and anthems which were contained in the former, and to add others, which are now esteemed good ones, several of which were never before published. On the other hand, it may be worthy of remark, that many tunes which have long been in use, are still, and perhaps forever will be highly approved by all good judges of Psalmody.' (Extract from Preface.)
86 compositions, incl. 1 anthem, most for 4 voices; some for 3; full text. Attribs, to Belknap, Billings (3), Brownson, Canfield, Coan, Doolittle (2), Edson (2), Ellis (2), Fitch, Goff (2), Hall, Hibbard, Holden (6), Ingalls, Janes, Kimball, Lee, Morgan (3), Munson (2), Peck, Read (24), W. Read, Robenson, Smith [American], Stephenson (2), Sumner (2), Swan, Weeks, Wetmore, Williams (4), Wright (4). 15 1st pr. claimed; 13 identified (CONTEMPLATION & MESSIAH not ist pr.), also 1 1st Am. pr. (MANILLA). 74 American compositions, 11 non-American, 1 unidentified [MANILLA] (69 attrib. Americans, 5 traced (DETROIT, EDOM, PLYMOUTH, PORTSMOUTH, SHELBURNE); 6 attrib. non-Americans, 5 traced).
26 Core Repertory.
Not in Shaw-Shoemaker (no copy on Readex). CtY, ICN, MIU-C (last 2 p. muti-lated), PMA (lacks all after p. 94).
ASMI 423A
The Columbian Harmonist... The second edition... Printed, typographically, at Dedham, by H. Mann... 1804.
94. [3] p.
[1805.] Read made up a sheet of 'Additional Errata' and in the first copies bound the sheet was pasted to the blank leaf at the end of the book; in later bindings the sheet replaces the blank leaf. (See Bushnell 1978, p. 293-94-) Contents same as main entry through p. [96]; then: p. [97], 'Additional Errata. By way of apology for the many errors which have crept into this Publication, the Editor would remark, that the distance of the Press from the place of his abode, rendered it impossible for him to look over the Proof Sheets while the work was in the Press. He therefore, as the only remedy in his power offers the following Additional Errata." (Note on p. [97] in full.)
Music same as main entry.
S7155 (RPB). DLC, RPB.
The Columbian Harmonist, ad ed., with Supplement
ASMI 424
The Columbian Harmonist . . . second edition. . . .Printed, typographically, at Dedham, by H. Mann . . . 1804.
[2d t-p.] Supplement to the Columbian Harmonist By J. Read, Attleborough.
94, [2], 24 р.
[1805.] The Supplement was compiled by Joel Read and is described under his name (No. 430).
Not in Shaw-Shoemaker (no copy on Readex). ICN, NeWsM.
NOTE: The title-page imprint of the ICN copy lacks the name of E. Duyckinck as a seller.
The Columbian Harmonist, 3d ed., 1806
PREFATORY NOTE: There are several reasons to conclude that this edition was published without Daniel Read's knowledge - probably by his brother Joel. In the first place, Read himself copyrighted and published a third edition in 1807. This 1806 edition has no independent copyright and merely repeats the notice which had appeared in the second edition. Furthermore, Read's correspondence gives no indication that he knew - in 1806 or at any later time-of this edition's existence. And finally, Read is not named in the imprint seller of the book, as he is in the second, the other third, and the fourth editions.
ASMI 425
The Columbian Harmonist . . . Third edition, corrected and improved. By Daniel Read. Dedham-printed by H. Mann - sold at his book-store, by J. Read, esq. Attleborough; W. Wilkinson, Providence; Manning and Loring, Boston, &c. H. Mann-executes music printing of all kinds, on reasonable terms. September 1806,
[2d t-p., caption title.] Supplement to the Columbian Harmonist.
94 p., 11., 31, [1] p.
The t-p. date is usually precise, and there is no reason to mistrust it. However, all copies located are bound with No. 480, an undated Supplement to the Columbian Harmonist different from the 24-p. Supplement (No. 430) bound with some copies of the second edition. On 21 Oct. 1806, the Dedham Norfolk Repository carried an advertisement dated Dedham, 18 October 1806, and signed by Abner Ellis, for a 'Supplement to go with [Jenks's] The Delights of Harmony or Norfolk Compiler. The description in the advertisement fits the Supplement to the Columbian Harmonist perfectly: 32 pages in length, newly published on that date by H. Mann of Dedham, and containing 'an Ode on Science, by Sumner an Anthem for Thanksgiving, and 5 'Original' pieces. Jenks's The Delights of Harmony was in fact provided with a supplement of its own-one that does not follow the description of Ellis's advertisement (see No. 290). It would seem then that the advertisement refers mistakenly to Jenks's work and was in fact issued to go with this pirated third ed. of Read's The Columbian Harmonist. Because doubt about authorship remains, however, the Supplement is described separately under its title below. Copyright granted 6 Nov. 1804, District of Connecticut, to Daniel Read as author. p. [1], tp.; p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-9, 'A Plain and Concise Introduction to Psalmody'; p. [10], copyright notice; p. [11]-94, music; blank leaf, p. [1], caption title for Supplement, p. [1]-31, music; p. [32], 'Index. Preface substantially same as second ed. (No. 423). Music, p. [11]-94, same as second ed. Attribs. also attrib. to Carpenter, Madan. second ed., except that single pieces Supplement: 25 compositions, incl. 1 anthem & 1 set-piece, for 3 & 4 voices; full text. Attribs. to Albee, Babcock, Belknap, Billings, Carpenter, Ellis (6), Goff, Holyoke, Janes (2), Mann, Read (3), J. Read, Rogerson, Sumner, Swan. 14 1st pr. claimed; 5 identified (add PSALM 146). 25 American compositions (23 attrib. Americans, 2 traced).
No Core Repertory.
S11251 (MWA). CSmH, ICN, MH, MWA", NN, RPB (2).
The Columbian Harmonist, 3d ed., 1807
ASMI 426
The Columbian Harmonist: containing a plain and concise introduction to psalmody, expressly calculated for the use of singing schools; together with a choice collection of sacred music, for public and social worship, consisting of more than one hundred tunes and anthems, carefully selected from the most approved American and European authors, including several tunes never before published. The third edition, corrected, improved, and enlarged. By Daniel Read, author of the American Singing Book. Boston:-printed by Manning and Loring, No. 2, Cornhill 1807. Sold, wholesale and retail, by Evert Duvckinck, New-York; Manning & Loring, Boston; Beers & Howe, and the editor, New Haven.
111, [1] p.
Copyright notice dated 2 May 1807, District of Connecticut, granted to Daniel Read author, the work was advertised as "Just published, New Haven Connecticut Journal, 20 August 1807. p. [i], t-p.; p. [ii], copyright notice; p. [iii], 'Preface'; p. [iv], 'Advertisement'; p. [v]-vii, 'Observations And Remarks'; p. [viii], metrical index of music; p. [ix]-xvi, A plain and concise Introduction to Psalmody'; p. [17]-111, music; p. [112], 'Index. "The Columbian Harmonist was originally designed, not only to furnish Singing Schools with a plain and concise Introduction to Psalmody, but also Musical Societies and Worshipping Assemblies. with a choice Collection of Sacred Music for public and social worship. . . . If any apology for publishing a third edition is necessary, it is hoped that the increasing demand for the book, and the strong inclination the Editor feels to rectify the errors and defects of the second edition, will be deemed sufficient. . . . . [New par.] . . . The following things were deemed important in a work of this kind . . . viz. that the Collection comprise a competent number of tunes of each of the metres usually sung in Churches; that there be a variety in the keys, movements, and airs, so that a Chorister may find some tune suitable to every subject and occasion; that the tunes be such as may with propriety be sung in different words of the same metre; that the music generally be such as is calculated to meet the prevailing taste in this country, but especially that it be suitable for the solemn purposes of religious worship. [New par.] Music which is too light and trifling for religious worship, or too hard and difficult to be performed by singers in general, or too refined to be relished except by persons of highly cultivated tastes, has generally been omitted. [New par.] A fine tunes of the lighter kind, and some which are incorrect in point of composition, have been admitted, rather on account of their popularity than the approbation of the Editor. . . . [New par.] To render this edition more extensively useful, and as far as possible to supersede the necessity of writing off music where this book is used, a considerable number of Tunes and Anthems which were not in the former editions have been added; among which are several pieces by celebrated European Composers, and a number of tunes never before published: the whole being selected from the works of more than forty different Authors. (Excerpt from Preface.) Over some of the tunes are the initials of the Author by whom, or the publication in which, together with the date when, the tune was first published. The initials are as follows: W. B. William Billings-A.S.B. American Singing Book-C. C. Chorister's Companion-C. H. Columbian Har-monist-O. H. Oliver Holden-A.M.M. American Musical Magazine-S.H. Select Har-mony. (Excerpt from Advertisement.)
102 compositions, incl. 3 anthems & 1 set-piece, for 4 voices, some for 3; full text. Attribs. to Dr. Arne (2), Austin, W. Billings (3), Brownson (2), Dr. Burney, A. Canfield, Chandler, J. Chetham, S. Coan, E. Doolittle, John Douland, Edson (3), N. Fitch (6), E. Goff, Hall, G. F. Handel, R. Harrison, Hibbard (2), O. Holden (3), Holdrayd, Ingalls, Kilburn, J. Kimball, G. Kirby, Lea, Dr. Madan (3), Morgan (3), A. Munson, Parmeter, Z. Peck, D. Read (32), W. Read, Rollo, Sacchini, Smith [American), J. Stephenson, T. Swan, Tansur's Coll. (5), 'ascribed to W. Tansur, Weeks, 'ascribed to West, A. Williams, A. Williams's Coll. (5), T. Williams's Coll., Wood, Wright. 13 1st pr. claimed; 13 identified. 175 American compositions, 27 non-American (75 attrib. Americans; 26 attrib. non-Americans, 1 traced [MEAR].
40 Core Repertory.
S13464 (MWA). CLU, CtY, DLC (lacks t-p.; front matter inc.), ICN, MSaE, MWA", MiU-C, NBUG (music inc.), NN, NewsM.
The Columbian Harmonist, 4th ed., 1810
ASMI 427
The Columbian Harmonist . . . The fourth edition, corrected and improved. . . . Boston: printed by Manning and Loring, No. 2, Cornhill. . . 1810. Sold, wholesale and retail, by Evert Duyckinck, New-York, and by the editor, New-Haven.
111, [1] p.
Copyright notice is for 3d ed. Advertised as 'now ready for the supply of Singing Schools, Booksellers, and others, New Haven, Connecticut Herald, 6 November 1810. Contents same as 3d ed., 1807. ↑ Preface same as 3d ed. (No. 426).
103 compositions, incl. 3 anthems & 1 set-piece, for 4 voices w. some for 3; full text. Attribs. to Dr. Arne (2), Austin, W. Billings (3), Brownson (2), Dr. Burney, A. Canfield, Chandler, J. Chetham, S. Coan, E. Doolittle, J. Douland, Edson (3), N. Fitch (5), E. Goff, Hall, G. F. Handel, R. Harrison, Hibbard (2), O. Holden (3), Holdrayd, Ingalls, Kilburn, J. Kimball, G. Kirby, Lea, Dr. Madan (4), Milgrove, Morgan (3), A. Munson, Parmeter, Z. Peck, D. Read (30), W. Read, Rollo, Sacchini, Smith [American], [I.] Smith, J. Stephen-son, T. Swan, 'ascribed to W. Tansur,' Tansur's Coll. (3), Thorley, Weeks, A. Williams, A. Williams's Coll. (5), T. Williams's Coll. (2), Wood, Wright. No 1st pr. identified. 172 American compositions, 31 non-American (72 attrib. Americans; 30 attrib. non-Americans, 1 traced [MEAR]. American & non-American compositions distinguished in index.)
42 Core Repertory.
S21176 (MWA). CtY, DLC (b.w. Christmas Anthem & The Easy Instructor), ICN, MHi, MWA, NN, NRU-Mus, NcWsM (3; 1 w. music inc.), RPB.
AN INTRODUCTION TO PSALMODY, 1790
ASMI 428
An Introduction to Psalmody; or, The Child's Instructor in Vocal Music. Containing, a series of familiar dialogues, under the following heads, viz. Psalmody in general — Stave, musical letters and cliffs —--- An exercise for the bass —--- An exercise for the tenor or treble —--- An exercise for the counter —--- Tones, semitones, flats, sharps and naturals —--- Solfaing, transpotion, &c. —--- The several notes and rests, and their proportion —--- The several moods of time —--- Several other characters used in music —--- Key notes, &c. —--- Pitching tunes, &c.----- Graces.------ (Illustrated with copper-plates.) By D. Read.
´Young children in their early days, / 'Shall give the God of Abra'm praise.' Watts.
Printed at New-Haven, by T. and S. Green, for the author.
14 p., 21., 15-29 p. 1 12 x 8.5 cm. 121. engraved. Unsigned; probably engraved by Amos Doolittle, who collaborated with Read to issue The American Musical Magazine (1786-87) and signed Read's The Columbian Harmonist No. 1 (1793) as engraver.
[1790.] New Haven Connecticut Journal, 17 March 1790, advertises work as just published. Proposals for subscriptions had appeared in the same newspaper as early as 9 June 1788. p. [1], t-p.; p. [2], 'Preface'; p. [3]-14, 15-29, 'An Introduction to Psalmody' in 13 Dialogues; 2 1. inserted in middle of book, rudiments. It is the noblest Employment of Angels and glorified Saints in Heaven, to sing Praises to God and the Lamb. And it is the indispensible Duty of every living Creature here upon Earth to do the same, especially when assembled together, professedly for the Worship of God. But alas! how different is the Practice of the most of the professed Worshippers of God, in this Country! But few comparitively join with Heart and Voice in this most important Part of Divine Worship. Whence arises this Evil? Were I to go from House to House, and make Enquiry, I fancy the most common Answer would be, "I have never been learnt." Certainly, therefore, the most likely Way to increase the Number of Singers, is to make the Knowledge of the Science of Music more universal: And in what Way can this better be done, than by making it one Branch of scholastic Learning? Let Children of all Denominations be regularly taught the Rules of Music while young, and it must certainly lay a Foundation for filling our Churches with Singers; and in that Way (it is to be hoped) of advancing the Glory of God, and the Interest of Religion in the World. [New par.] I have never yet seen any Book which appeared to me fitly calculated for the Purpose above mentioned; I have therefore, from the above Consid-erations, been induced to publish the following Dialogues, which I hope will answer the Purpose for which they are designed; or provoke some abler Pen to undertake a Work of the like Kind, and to execute it with better Success.' (Preface in full.)
No music.
E22829 (no copy on Readex). MWA*.
NOTE: Evans 29392 reports an edition of 1795. Shipton & Mooney dismiss it as 'apparently a ghost of 22829, Evans' entry being from advs. which gave no clue as to imprint.’
ASMI pp. 497-514.