Curwen, Rev. John

1816-1880

Born at Heckmondwike, Yorkshire, England. While he was pastor of a church in Essex he became interested in Miss S. A. Glover's " Tonic Sol-fa " system and for many years labored to improve it. In 1843 his Grammar of Vocal Music appeared, and he founded an Association in 1853 and the Tonic Sol-fa College in 1862, resigning his pastorate a few years later to devote his whole time to the systems. His numerous publications relate chiefly to it. He also wrote various hymn and tune books, collections of part-music and school-songs.