David Hurd facts for kids
David Hurd (born in 1950) is a very talented musician. He is a composer (someone who writes music), a concert organist (who plays the organ for audiences), a choral director (who leads singing groups), and an educator (a teacher).
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About David Hurd
Dr. Hurd taught sacred music and directed chapel music at the General Theological Seminary in New York City for 39 years. He also directed music at the Church of the Holy Apostles. Today, he is the Director of Music at the Church of St. Mary the Virgin (Manhattan) in Times Square, New York City.
Education and Early Success
David Hurd went to special music schools. These include the High School of Music & Art, the Juilliard School, and Oberlin College. He has also received special "honorary doctorates." These are degrees given to him to celebrate his important work in sacred music (music for religious services).
In 1977, he won two first prizes at the International Congress of Organists. He won for playing the organ and for making up music on the spot (improvisation). He was the only person ever to win both prizes in the same year!
His Music and Compositions
Hurd has worked at several churches. These include Trinity Church (Manhattan) and the Church of the Intercession (Manhattan). His special music piece, the Intercession Mass, is used by many churches across the United States.
He has written over 100 pieces for choirs and organs. His music has been recorded in both the United States and England. Many churches and groups ask him to write new songs and organ pieces for them.
Notable Works
Some of his important pieces include:
- "Gloria, gloria": This was written for the Boys Choir of Harlem. It was first performed at Avery Fisher Hall.
- "O the Depth of Love Divine": This piece was for a choir, brass instruments, and organ.
- "Arioso & Final": This was an organ piece.
- "Sonata for Saxophone and Organ": This was first played in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in 2006.
In 2014, he wrote a song for St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church in Atlanta. It was based on Psalm 100 from the Bible.
Influence and Legacy
You can find David Hurd's sacred music in many hymnals (songbooks used in churches). This includes the Episcopal Hymnal, 1982. David Hurd is one of the most well-known and successful classical organists who is African-American.
