tinctively clannish nature. But
the haze of complexional prejudice has so much obscured the vision of
many persons, that they cannot see (at least, there are many who
affect not to see) that musical faculties, and power for their
_artistic_ development, are not in the exclusive possession of the
fairer-skinned race, but are alike the beneficent gifts of the Creator
to all his children. Besides, there are some well-meaning persons who
have formed, for lack of the information which is here afforded,
erroneous and unfavorable estimates of the art-capabilities of the
colored race. In the hope, then, of contributing to the formation of a
more just opinion, of inducing a cheerful admission of its existence,
and of aiding to establish between both races relations of mutual
respect and good feeling; of inspiring the people most concerned (if
that be necessary) with a greater pride in their own achievements, and
confidence in their own resources, as a basis for other and even
greater acquirements, as a landmark, a partial guide, for a future and
better chronicler; and, finally, as a sincere tribute to the winning
power, the noble beauty, of music, a contemplation of whose own divine
harmony should ever serve to promote harmony between man and
man,--with these purposes in view, this humble volume is hopefully
issued.

THE AUTHOR.

CONTENTS.

PAGE

A DESCRIPTION OF MUSIC 7-11

THE MUSIC OF NATURE 12-21

A GLANCE AT THE HISTORY OF MUSIC 22-50

THE BEAUTY, POWER, AND USES OF MUSIC 51-65

ELIZABETH TAYLOR GREENFIELD (the "Black Swan") 66-87

THE LUCA FAMILY 88-105

HENRY F. WILLIAMS 106-113

JUSTIN HOLLAND 114-130

THOMAS J. BOWERS (the "American Mario") 131-137

JAMES GLOUCESTER DEMAREST 138-140

THOMAS GREENE BETHUNE ("Blind Tom") 141-159

THE HYERS SISTERS 160-179

FREDERICK ELLIOT LEWIS 180-191

NELLIE E. BROWN 192-208