Esther Ballou facts for kids
Esther Williamson Ballou (born July 17, 1915 – died March 12, 1973) was an American musician. She was a talented music teacher, an organ player, and a composer who wrote her own music. She was born in Elmira, New York.
Early Life and Musical Training
Esther began playing the organ when she was 13 years old. She started writing her own music when she was in her twenties. She went to several well-known schools to study music. These included Bennington College, Mills College, and The Juilliard School of Music. She finished her studies at Juilliard in 1943. In August 1950, she married Harold Ballou.
Teaching Career and White House Premiere
Esther's ability to perform music was limited by arthritis, a condition that can make joints painful. Because of this, she focused on teaching music. She taught at The Juilliard School from 1943 to 1950. Later, she taught at Catholic University from 1951 to 1954. From 1955 to 1972, she was a teacher at American University.
In 1963, something very special happened. Her piece of music called Capriccio for Violin and Piano was played for the first time at the White House. This was a big moment because it was the first time a piece by an American woman composer was performed there. Esther Ballou passed away in Chichester, England.
Musical Compositions
Esther Ballou wrote many different kinds of music. She composed pieces for orchestras, chamber groups (small groups of musicians), organs, pianos, and singers. She also published a book about music.
Some of her musical works include:
- Nocturne, 1937
- Adagio for Bassoon and String Orchestra, 1962
- Capriccio for Violin and Piano, 1963
- Concerto for Guitar and Orchestra, 1964
- Concerto for Piano and Orchestra, 1964
- Concerto for Viola and Orchestra, 1969
She also wrote a book titled:
- Creative Explorations of Musical Elements (1971)
