Charlotte Alington Barnard facts for kids

Charlotte Alington Pye Barnard (born December 23, 1830, in Louth, Lincolnshire – died January 30, 1869, in Dover) was a talented English poet and music composer. She wrote many popular songs and hymns. She often used the pen name Claribel. Charlotte wrote over 100 songs and two books of poems. She became very successful with her music publishers, Boosey's. She even helped create one of the first royalty deals for artists. This meant she got paid a share of the money her music earned.

The Life of Claribel

Early Years and Moving to London

Charlotte Alington Pye was the daughter of Henry Alington Pye, a lawyer. In 1854, she married Charles Barnard. He was a church leader in Ruckland, Lincolnshire. However, they lived in Louth, Lincolnshire. In 1856, Charlotte was presented at court. After this, the couple moved to Pimlico, a part of London. They lived near famous people, like the conductor Michael Costa. In London, Charlotte studied music. Her teachers included the pianist W.H. Holmes and the singer Charlotte Sainton-Dolby.

Music Studies and Public Success

Charlotte was involved in her hometown of Louth. On July 8, 1847, she helped start the building of Louth railway station. She laid its foundation stone. In 1862, she visited Louth again. During this visit, Charlotte wrote "20 Spring Songs." She also sang some of her own music at a concert. This concert helped raise money for a new window in St James' Church, Louth. Today, there is a beautiful stained glass window in that church. It is there to remember Charlotte.

By 1864, Charlotte and her husband moved to Kirmington. Her husband became the Rector of Brocklesby with Kirmington. Charlotte was a very active writer of ballads and hymns. Ballads are like story-songs. Her first big public success was in 1859. This was with her ballad called 'Janet's Choice'. She wrote it for the singer Charlotte Sainton-Dolby.

Her Famous Songs and Hymns

Claribel wrote many well-known songs. Some of her most famous works include 'I Cannot Sing the Old Songs'. Other popular songs were 'Bide A Wee' and 'Won't You Tell Me Why, Robin?' (from 1861). She also wrote 'Five O'Clock in the Morning' (1862) and 'Mountain Mabel' (1865). One of her most loved songs is 'Come Back to Erin' (1866). She also composed the music for a hymn tune. It is called 'Brocklesby'.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1868, a difficult family situation arose. Charlotte joined her husband and father in Belgium. However, she returned to England in early 1869 for a holiday. Sadly, she became ill during this time. Charlotte died after a short illness. She passed away from typhoid fever on January 30, 1869. Even though she died young, Claribel left behind many beautiful songs and poems. Her music continues to be enjoyed by people today.