Curwen, JOHN

Curwen, JOHN, the apostle of the Tonic Sol-fa system of teaching music, was the son of an Independent minister, and was born at Heckmondwike, Yorkshire, 14th November 1816. He was trained for the ministry, and after having served as assistant in various charges, was settled as minister of the Independent chapel at Plaistow. In 1841 he began to advocate the Sol-fa System (q.v.); in 1843 his Grammar of Vocal Music appeared; in 1864 he resigned his ministry and gave himself wholly to the cause. He died 6th May 1880. See Memorials of John Curwen (1882).