Music from the Hilltop: Organs and Organists at Southern Methodist University

Music from the Hilltop explores the role of musical studies in the development of Southern Methodist University, highlighting the contributions of Bertha Stevens Cassidy, Dora Poteet Barclay, and Robert Theodore Anderson. It also traces the history of church music and pipe organs in Dallas, Texas.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: University of North Texas Press,U.S.

In his captivating book, Music from the Hilltop, Benjamin A. Kolodziej delves into the lives of three significant academic musical figures to unravel a captivating narrative that not only sheds light on the pivotal role of musical studies in the development of Southern Methodist University but also provides a rich tapestry of church music and pipe organs in Dallas, Texas. The first person to grace the faculty of the young university as the inaugural organ professor and the sole woman among its ranks, Bertha Stevens Cassidy (1876–1959) emerged as a formidable leader and a true dean within the church music community. Throughout her illustrious career, she graced numerous significant performances and imparted her knowledge to aspiring students. One of her most notable protégés, Dora Poteet Barclay (1903–1961), expanded the pedagogical horizons of her students, nurturing their talents and enabling them to achieve remarkable professional success as performers and church musicians.

Adding to the tapestry of musical excellence, Robert Theodore Anderson (1934–2009) emerges as a remarkable figure who bridged the gap between theologians at the Methodist seminary and the talented performers at the Meadows School of the Arts. With his intellectual prowess, he consulted with the Dallas Symphony to prepare for the installation of an organ in the newly constructed Meyerson Symphony Center. This organ, a masterpiece in its own right, would leave a lasting influence on concert hall instruments for decades to come.

Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Music from the Hilltop offers a captivating glimpse into the historical significance of musical studies, church music, and pipe organs in Dallas, Texas. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of these individuals and their profound impact on the cultural and artistic landscape of the city. This book is a must-read for music enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of musical heritage in the United States.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781574419108