West Chester was home to Samuel Barber, who is considered by many to be the greatest musical composer of the 20^th century, writes Malcolm Johnstone for County Lines Magazine.

You will see several nods to the composer around downtown, marking his childhood homes. 

When Barber was 7 years old, he wrote his first original music and was just 10 years old at his first opera. At age 14, Barber was enrolled at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. In his young adult life, he moved to New York City, performing at a range of venues. Apart from composing, Barber also picked up the art of opera and voice and solo instruments.  

As classical music saw great changes throughout the beginning of the 20^th century, Barber rejected the modern musical takes, instead preferring the 19^th century harmonic language. He could also venture into other genres, including boogie-woogie and blues, as heard on a piece entitled “Excursions, Opus 20.”  

Barber’s greatest musical gift was said to be his ability to partner with other artistic platforms and experiences. His 1936 “Adagio for Strings” has been featured in several film scores and has been played at times of mourning, having been included in the funeral of John F. Kennedy.  

Barber passed away in 1981, at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer. His funeral was held at First Presbyterian Church in West Chester, with his final resting placed located at Oaklands Cemetery.  

Read more about the life and musical compositions of Samuel Barber at County Lines Magazine. 

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