Leo Sowerby
American composer and church musician
Leo Sowerby Rank
About Leo Sowerby
From 1927 to 1962, music composer Leo Sowerby was the organist and choirmaster at St James Cathedral. Known as the “Dean of American church music”, he won a Pulitzer Prize in 1946 for his music.
Childhood
By the time he was 10 years old, Sowerby had started composing music. He later developed an interest in the organ and taught himself how to play the instrument. He attended the American Conservatory of Music, where he studied composition.
Career
In 1913, Sowerby performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra before departing to France to serve as bandmaster in World War I. He taught for three years at his alma mater from 1924-1927 before serving at St James. After his retirement in 1962, Sowerby became the founding director of the College of Church Musicians and held that position until his death in 1968.
Honors
He won the 1921 Rome Prize and was the first music composer to receive the award. For his cantata, “Canticle of the Sun”, Sowerby won the 1946 Pulitzer Prize for Music.
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F.A.Q. about Leo Sowerby
When is his birthday?
Leo Sowerby's birthday is on May 1, 1895.
In how many days is his birthday?
Leo's birthday is in 85 days
How old was Leo when he died?
He was 73 years old.
When did he die?
He died in July 7, 1968.
How old would he be today?
Leo Sowerby would be 127 years old if he was alive today.
Where was Leo from?
He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S..