1820. Philharmonic Society organized in Bethlehem, Pa. (Originally the Collegium Musicum of 1750.)
1820. Two musical societies formed in New York City, viz.,—the Philharmonic, and the Euterpean.
The Philharmonic used to engage prominent artists. It gradually dwindled but was reorganized in 1840.
The Euterpean gave concerts which were usually followed by a supper and a ball. It ceased to exist about 1845.
1820. Aug. 30. George F. Root, noted American song-writer. Died Aug. 6, 1895.
1820. The Philadelphia Musical Fund Society established. Gave its first concert April 24, 1821, when Beethoven's First Symphony was played for the first time in America. (Between the movements vocal and other solos were given by sundry artists.)
1821. New England musical matters on record of this year are: An oratorio given by the Psallion Society of Providence, R. I.;
A performance of music by the New Hampshire Musical Society at Hanover, N. H.;
The existence of a Beethoven Society in Portland, Me.
1823. Production in New York City of "Clari, the Maid of the Mill," ballad opera by Sir Henry Bishop and J. Howard Payne. This opera contains the song, "Home, Sweet Home." Was presented in London on May 23.