[Rarebooks] FS: The First Published Music Written by a Native American, 1845

[Charles Agvent]

Another interesting item fromour new catalog--SUMMER MISCELLANY 
2014--with 127 select items, all new arrivals, in a variety of fields:
http://www.charlesagvent.com/shop/agvent/index.html?id=DLrIinxi&mv_pc=440

COMMUCK, Thomas (A Narragansett Indian). INDIAN MELODIES. New York: G. 
Lane & C. B. Tippett, 1845. First Edition. Oblong octavo, 114 (2) pages. 
Original calf-backed printed boards with leather corner tips. A 
collection of original songs written by a Narragansett Indian who had 
worked on the compilation for seven years, only having learned to sing 
"scientifically" two years before. Apparently the first published 
attempt at such a feat by a Native American and thus of extreme 
historical importance. According to the author in his preface, he was 
aware of no other "son of the forest" trying to do what he had done. The 
songs are harmonized by Thomas Hastings, the famous American hymn 
compiler and composer, perhaps best known for writing the music for 
"Rock of Ages," who also happened to be an albino. The approximately two 
hundred songs in this compilation are for the most part titled after 
Native American tribes, though the lyrics are more traditionally 
Christian reflecting Commuck's Methodist Episcopal beliefs. Very scarce! 
Library perforated stamp on title page and two pages of preface, ink 
notation at top of first page of preface and first page of music; 
contents clean and crisp. Spine leather worn away, both covers neatly 
detached. Very Good.
One of the earliest books to be authored by a Native American regarding 
Native American culture. (#017524)        $1,500.00

http://www.charlesagvent.com/shop/agvent/017524.html?id=xoNKTxxF

-- 
All books subject to prior sale. Cash with order; institutions may be 
billed. Postage additional: $10.00 for the first item; $5.00 for each 
thereafter. Overseas postage billed at approximate cost. Pennsylvania 
residents must add 6% sales tax. Mastercard, Visa, American Express, and 
Discover accepted. Books may be returned within 7 days of receipt for 
any reason provided they are in the same condition as sent and prior 
notice is given. Please insure returns for their full value. We carry a 
diverse stock with major specialties including Modern and 19th Century 
Literary First Editions, Signed Books, Presidential Autographs, 
Illustrated Books, and the world's largest inventory of Limited Editions 
Club books. *We have been in business since 1987 and are proud to be 
members of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America (ABAA) and 
the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers (ILAB).* Please feel 
free to contact us with any wants or offerings. Thank you.

CHARLES AGVENT

291 Linden Road

Mertztown, PA 19539-8750

610-682-4750

info at charlesagvent.com

Please visit our shop: http://www.charlesagvent.com