The Stoughton Musical Society, established in 1786, holds the distinction of being America's oldest performing musical organization. Its origins trace back to the inspiration provided by a singing school conducted in Stoughton in 1774 by the Boston composer, William Billings. This early foundation laid the groundwork for a group that would achieve numerous distinguished accomplishments over more than two centuries, evolving from a local singing society
into a nationally recognized institution of American choral music. The society's enduring presence and contributions have cemented its place in the cultural history of the United States.
Founding and Early Activities
The formal organization of the Stoughton Musical Society took place on November 7, 1786. A group of 25 male singers from the town formed the society, with their names meticulously recorded in the membership journal. The first President and conductor of this nascent group was Elijah Dunbar, who served from 1740 to 1814 and hailed from Canton. Dunbar was not only a leader but also an active singer within the society, embodying the communal spirit of its early days.
One of the society's initial significant acquisitions was "The Worcester Collection of Sacred Harmony," compiled by Isaiah Thomas in 1786. This collection was particularly notable as it contained the first American printing of the iconic "Hallelujah Chorus" from Handel's "Messiah." This purchase highlights the society's early commitment to performing significant choral works and its role in disseminating important musical pieces in the young United States.
The First American Singing Contest
Around 1790, the Stoughton Musical Society participated in what is believed to be the first singing contest held in America. They faced a chorus from the nearby First Parish Church in Dorchester. The Dorchester chorus, composed of both men and women, performed with the accompaniment of a bass viol. In contrast, the Stoughton Musical Society presented twenty selected male voices, performing without any instrumental accompaniment.
During the contest, the Stoughton singers first performed Jacob French's anthem, "The Heavenly Vision," entirely from memory. After an unidentified piece by the Dorchester chorus, the Stoughton singers delivered a majestic rendition of Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus" from "Messiah," also from memory and without accompaniment. Following this powerful performance, the Dorchester chorus conceded defeat, marking a victory for the Stoughton singers and a memorable moment in early American musical history.
Centennial and World's Fair Recognition
The society celebrated its centennial on June 9, 1886, with a full day of events, including a special dinner and an evening concert. This significant occasion was attended by prominent figures such as Governor George D. Robinson and Lieutenant Governor Oliver Ames. Governor Robinson praised the concert, remarking on the "fine production" and the "real delight" it afforded him. The featured work for this centennial concert was Haydn's oratorio, "The Creation," performed by soloists, chorus, and orchestra.
One of the society's most notable achievements occurred in 1893 at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The Stoughton Musical Society, comprising 100 musicians, performed two concerts in the Music Hall. Both the singers and the orchestra were dressed in Colonial costumes, adding a historical flair to their performances. The first concert on August 14 drew an audience of 2,000 people, surpassing the attendance of symphony concerts conducted by Theodore Thomas. The society's repertoire for these concerts included 24 pieces by 18th-century New England composers such as William Billings, Oliver Holden, Jacob French, and Daniel Read, showcasing their dedication to American musical heritage.
