Ellen R. Thompson facts for kids

Ellen Reed Thompson (born October 16, 1928 – died September 14, 2014) was an amazing American composer and music teacher. She taught at Wheaton College Conservatory of Music for many years, helping students learn about music.

Early Life and Education

Ellen Thompson was born in Rutherford, New Jersey. She was one of six children in her family. She loved music from a young age.

She studied music at several colleges. She earned her first music degree from Houghton College. Later, she got a Master of Arts degree in music education from Columbia University Teachers College. She also earned a Masters of Music degree from the American Conservatory of Music. She learned from great teachers like Lillian Powers-Wadsworth and Stella Roberts.

A Dedicated Teacher

Ellen Thompson taught piano and music theory for 39 years. She worked at the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. She was also in charge of the theory department for 25 years. In 1976, her students and colleagues voted her "Senior Teacher of the Year."

She also led the Concert Choir and the Women's Glee Club. She was part of important music groups like the Central Midwest Theory Conference and the College Music Society.

Composing Wonderful Music

While teaching at Wheaton, Ellen Thompson also directed choirs at College Church. This church asked her to write special music. She composed a large musical piece called an oratorio in 1978. She also wrote a hymn for them in 1993.

From 1960 to 1984, she worked as a composer, arranger, and editor for Scripture Press. This company later became part of David C. Cook. Her important papers and musical works are kept safe at the Wheaton College Library.

Her Published Works

Ellen Thompson's music was published by companies like Kjos-West and Scripture Press. Here are some of her well-known works:

Book

• Teaching and Understanding Contemporary Piano Music

Hymn

• "Soli Deo Gloria"!

Oratorio

• Temple of God