LETTER: Curwen's anniversary is a special occasion
On July 1, 1988 an engraved memorial commemorating Heckmondwike-born John Curwen, originator, according to the Heckmondwike Herald report, of the tonic sol fa system of teaching singing, was unveiled.
The Oxford Dictionary of Music accredits Sarah Glover, a Norwich schoolmistress with this invention, but allows that Curwen ‘adopted and promoted’ the sol fa system during his life after resigning his congregational ministry.
The plaque was placed in Green Park and may still be there.
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Hide AdJohn Curwen was born on November 14, 1816 and so Monday, November 14 2016 will mark the 200th anniversary of his birth.
Heckmondwike boasts few famous sons and so it would be sad if this occasion passes unheralded. I trust some form of celebration will mark the event.
Mike Heddon, Harrogate Road, Bradford