The Keyboard through Peter Pelham’s Manuscript

Explore early American music in a special lecture-recital centered on Peter Pelham’s 1744 music manuscript, offering insight into keyboard education during Colonial America. Pelham, an organist, teacher, and performer who worked in both Boston and Williamsburg, compiled a collection of teaching pieces ranging from simple minuets to adapted arias and organ works, highlighting how music was taught and learned in the 18th century.

The program will be presented by Dr. Grace Shepard, a musician and historian based in South Florida, whose work spans university teaching, historical research, private instruction, and performance. An accomplished performer, she brings a passion for chamber music and historical repertoire to this engaging program.