Boone Infantry brass band quick step / composed expressly for and most respectfully dedicated to Captain T. O. Duncan by Frank Johnson. Philadelphia : Osbourn’s Music Saloon, 1844.

Although he was famous on two continents, visual images of the bandleader and composer Francis Johnson are rare. The horn player in this 1844 illustrated cover may well represent Johnson in his band uniform. Johnson was the first African American composer to be published in the sheet music format and is considered to be America’s first band master. His numerous compositions straddled popular marches, dances, and instrumental styles. He was a virtuoso soloist on keyed bugle and violin.

$1000

Learn more and listen to recorded performances of Johnson’s music on the Clements Library Blog: “The First Published African-American Composer”