History of Northampton, Massachusetts, from its settlement in 1654;

530 HISTORY OF NORTHAMPTON. [HOI.
the psalm and the tune had been announced in a stentorian
voice by the deacon or precentor, the deacon read one line
and the people sang it ; then they waited till the next line
was read. This method always tedious, often ill performed,
and generally unsatisfactory, fell into disrepute, and a vigorous
attempt was made for its improvement. The clergy
were conspicuous in condemnation of it, and earnestly advocated
a reformation. Then arose a controversy which
extended throughout New England, and for many years
the question of "singing by rule or rote" was the theme
of animated discussion. Slowly the system of singing by
rule gained ground, and the young people began to take
lessons in singing and sociability. At first there was strong
opposition to singing-schools, and the older citizens came
tardily into the method. Schools were opened in various
towns in the vicinity, certainly in the latter half of the
eighteenth century, and possibly before. Such schools
were in operation in Hatfield and Hadley in 1768, and in
1771. They were sustained for some time by subscription,
and afterwards, when their efficiency was recognized, supported
by the town. Some wanted them placed under the
supervision of the town, because they were afraid that the
young people would govern if they were not under the con-
trol of officers appointed by the town. ^
'
' Singing Lec-
tures," at which the minister preached, and the singers gave
evidence of their proficiency, formed a part of the new
system of musical education. They were frequently held
in various towns in different parts of the county, though
there is no mention of any in Northampton till 1773. Five
years before, the singers of the towns of Hatfield and Had-
ley met in the latter town. There was a lecture and singing
in the afternoon, and apparently a concert by the two
schools in the evening. The Hatfield singers seem to have
been sumptuously entertained by their Hadley friends.
Singing-schools were held sometimes at private houses, and
sometimes in the meeting-house.
Change in Singing The change in the method of singing was
in Northanapton. made iu tliis towu, as nearly as can be ascertained,
about the year 1770, and was not
effected without considerable opposition. One reason
1 Judd's Diary.