Ebenezer Prout

Ebenezer Prout Sheet Music

  • Born: 1st March 1835
  • Died: 5th December 1909
  • Birthplace: Oundle, England

Ebenezer Prout was an English musical theorist, writer, teacher and composer whose instruction underpinned the work of many British musicians. He studied pianoforte under Charles Salaman, but was otherwise self-taught. He attended the University of London and worked as an organist for the Union Chapel, as piano professor for the Crystal Palace School of Art, as professor of Harmony and Composition at the London Royal Academy, as professor of music in the university of Dublin, and at the Guildhall School of Music. He was awarded prizes for his string quartet and pianoforte quartet by the Society of British Musicians, as well as a honor title by the university of Dublin. His other documented jobs include being editor of the Montly Musical Record and critic for the Academy. His lectures and theoretical works have been translated into many languages. As an editor, he produced editions of many of the classics, and was directly connected with the rediscovery of the original wind parts for the Messiah. He reflected the practices of the time in that he felt justified in replacing Handel's prashing and expression marks with his own preferences. Ebenezer Prout died in London.