The New England Psalm-Singer

William Billings, America’s foremost professional composer of hymns and ‘psalm-tunes,’ was integral to the American folk tradition.

William Billings was known as a “singing master” and America's preeminent composer of original psalms and hymns. A detail from "The Choristers," circa 1740–1745, by Alessandro Magnasco. Public Domain

Composer William Billings (1746–1800) wrote many of early America’s most treasured hymns. The multitalented artist was a singer, visionary psalmist, and leader among influential figures in colonial times. During his lengthy career, he wrote more than 300 songs.

His comforting words and music would go on to become a vital piece of America’s historic folk music culture.

Cultivating a Love of Music