Elam Ives and the Pestalozzian Philosophy of Music Education

Abstract

IN 183 1 A SMALL BOOK of songs entitled The JuveniZe Lyre was published by Carter, Hendee & Co., of Boston. In later years, Lowell Mason, who was one of two compilers of book, described it as the first school song book published in this country. The intent here is not to argue this point (as tempting an assignment as that might be), but rather to establish identity of second man of this team; for here was a man whose influence in development of a philosophy of American music pedagogy was much greater than has been recognized. This man was Elam Ives, Jr. Although Ives published an imposing list of books and art songs during 30-year period 1830-1860 one can search in vain through standard biographical reference works for more than a short sentence about him. Yet it was he who actually founded in America musical practice of Pestalozzianism, which was dominant philosophy of music education in this country during greater portion of l9th century. Indeed? many Pestalozzian precepts are still followed in music education today. Ives' early experiments and writings had direct influence on such leaders as Lowell Mason and Thomas Hastings. Before this point is developed, however, let us consider few facts we are able to piece together concerning life of this man.