Joseph Brackett
Joseph Brackett Jr. (May 6, 1797 – July 4, 1882) was an American songwriter and Elder of The United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing, better known as the Shakers. Brackett's most famous composition, "Simple Gifts", is still widely performed and adapted.
Biography
Brackett was born in Cumberland, Maine, on May 6, 1797, as Elisha Brackett.[1][2] His first name was changed to Joseph, like his father's, when the Bracketts joined the Shaker community in Gorham, Maine.[2] This new Shaker community was centered on the Bracketts' property, until the whole group moved to Poland Hill, Maine, in 1819.
He is known as the author of the Shaker dancing song "Simple Gifts", which has become an internationally loved tune, both through his original version and many of its adaptations. The song, written in 1848, was largely unknown outside of Shaker communities until Aaron Copland used the melody in his 1944 composition Appalachian Spring.
Brackett's tune is also known widely through the lyrics "Lord of the Dance" written by Sydney Carter in 1963.
Death and legacy
Brackett died in the Shaker community of Sabbathday Lake at New Gloucester, Maine.[3]
The "Tune Lovers Society", an online organization designed to preserve and protect American tunes from the past, sponsors a birthday commemoration for Brackett on May 6.[4]
References
- ^ Hall, Roger L. (2006). The Story of SIMPLE GIFTS. PineTree Press.
- ^ a b Hall, Roger. "Joseph Brackett's "Simple Gifts"". Society for American Music Bulletin. Retrieved 4 February 2013.
- ^ Hall, Roger L. (2006). The Story of SIMPLE GIFTS. PineTree Press.
- ^ "Joseph Brackett Day". American Music Preservation.com. Retrieved August 26, 2012.
External links
- Joseph Brackett's 'Simple Gifts'
- Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village
- Free scores by Joseph Brackett at the International Music Score Library Project (IMSLP)
- American Music Preservation
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