Kemper Harreld

Kemper Harreld (1885–1971), born William Kemper Harreld in Muncie, Indiana, was an African American concert violinist. In addition to being an accomplished violinist, Harreld was also a pianist and organist. A graduate of Chicago Musical College, Harreld performed until 1911 when he became head of the music department at Atlanta Baptist College (Morehouse College, presently). Harreld intendended to teach music at Morehouse for only one term, but served for 42 years as the chair of the music department. Harreld officially established the Morehouse College Glee Club in 1911, and served as the organization's first director. For a time, Harreld served simultaneously as the chair of the music department of Spelman College as well as Morehouse. His students included Edmund Jenkins and Wendell P. Whalum. He retired in 1953. Upon his retirement, Wendell Whalum succeeded him as the director of the Morehouse College Glee Club. Harreld died in the beginning of 1971 and his funeral was held on February 27. The glee club which he had established and achieved international acclaim, performed at his funeral.

Harreld's music was recorded and distributed by the Pace Phonograph Company's "Black Swan Records" label.

References

"The Music of Black Americans: A History". Eileen Southern. W. W. Norton & Company; 3rd edition. ISBN 0-393-97141-4