| Citation |
CC-H.771.051
20-27 Aug 1771:41 (348)
I am a lad, of about fourteen years of age who by a natural
good genius, assisted by the labours of a skilful master,
have attained a considerable degree of knowledge in the art
of music. After I had experienced some of the pleasures of
benefits which necessarily flows from such an useful
knowledge, I was solicitous to impart the same to as many of
my play mates as could be persuaded to listen to my advice.
I have succeeded so well, as that I have learn't a little
number, to know almost as much of the rules as I do--we are
now able to perform in consort, to the admiration of those
who are the best judges. And by means of this improving
art, we have been so fortunate as to gain the friendship and
esteem of some persons of worth and merit, who have
condescended to own it as a favour to be admitted into our
little society, when we have met together for the
improvement of singing. This we mention not out of
ostentation, but with thanks and gratitude to gentlemen who
have honoured us with their good company and approbation.
There are a multitude of advantages I could mention as
flowing from this pleasant art, as it disposes us to peace
and agreement among ourselves, to industry that we might
gain time to improve in said art, to a dutiful obedience to
our parents, that we might gain their good will and
concurrence in the thing. We naturally learn good manners,
as our skill often introduces us into the company of
gentlemen of polite education. The last, and greatest
advantage I shall mention at this time, as flowing from the
knowledge of this art; is the assistance it affords to an
upright heart (in sounding forth the praises of the great
creator of all things) in a most harmonious and decent
manner, which never fails to delight the ears of those who
possess a good heart, and have a relish for music. After we
had experienced something of the advantages above named, we
by the advice of some friends, endeavoured to set together
in one seat on sundays, that we might be the better
accommodated to assist and encourage each other in
performing the counter part, as that part is most adapted to
young voices; and we hoped we should be countenanced by
almost all. But alas! there are but few comparatively that
openly encourage us. Some only deride us and others are so
silent or passive, as that we are greatly at a loss whether
we please or displease the greater part since the opposition
we meet with from the envious and ilnatur'd, cannot have
pass'd unobserv'd, and yet no means have been used to
prevent the growing mischief.
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