Jeanette Tillett facts for kids
Jeanette Laura Tillett (born August 8, 1888 – died July 22, 1965) was an American composer and music educator from Texas. A composer writes music, and a music educator teaches it. Jeanette Tillett helped many people learn about music and created her own beautiful pieces.
Jeanette was born in Abilene, Texas. Her parents were Henry Augustus and Mary Benjamin Smith Tillett. Her father was a lawyer, also known as an attorney. He also served in the Texas Senate, which is a part of the state government that helps make laws for Texas. Jeanette's birth name was "Nettie," but she later changed it to "Jeanette."
Her Musical Journey
Jeanette Tillett loved music from a young age. She studied piano with famous teachers like Harold von Mickwitz and Severin Eisenberger. Learning from such talented people helped her become a skilled musician.
Teaching and Leadership
Jeanette Tillett was not just a performer; she was also a dedicated teacher. She founded and managed the Fort Worth Conservatory of Music. A conservatory is a special school where people can study music in depth. She also taught music at Texas Christian University, which is a well-known university in Texas.
Jeanette was part of Mu Phi Epsilon, which is an honor society for music students and professionals. In 1932, she helped start the Fort Worth Music Teachers Association. This group brought music teachers together to share ideas and improve music education. She even served as the president of this association from 1954 to 1955.
Her Compositions
Jeanette Tillett wrote many musical pieces. After she passed away in 1965, another composer named Esther Cox Todd helped share and sell Jeanette's music. Her compositions were published by companies like Belwin Inc. and Willis Music Co., which helped her music reach more people.
Chamber Music
Chamber music is written for a small group of instruments, usually played in a smaller room or "chamber."
- Blue Bonnets of Texas (for piano, violin, and voice)
Piano Music
Jeanette Tillett also wrote many pieces specifically for the piano.
- Sonata No. 1 in C Major
- Teen Topics Sonatina
- Three Western Sketches
