Inventory of the J. Benjamin Smith papers, 1965-1988

Abstract

J. Benjamin Smith was Duke Choral Director from 1968-1988.

The collection includes clippings, black and white group photographs, correspondence, sheet music notebooks, "Fontainebleau Alumni Bulletin," and Smith's conductor's baton. The collection ranges in date from 1965-1988.

Descriptive Summary

Repository: University Archives, Duke University
Creator: Smith, J. Benjamin, Jr.
Title: J. Benjamin Smith papers, 1965-1988
Language of Material: English
Extent: 1.3 Linear Feet, 75 Items
Location: For current information on the location of these materials, please consult the Library's online catalog.

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Collection Overview

Collection includes clippings, black and white group photographs, correspondence, sheet music notebooks, "Fontainebleau Alumni Bulletin," and Smith's conductor's baton. The collection ranges in date from 1965-1988.

Administrative Information

Collections are on the move for the renovation of the David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library. Contact Rubenstein Library staff before visiting. Read More »

Access Restrictions

Patrons must sign the Acknowledgement of Legal Responsibility and Privacy Rights form before using this collection.

Collection is open for research.

Use Restrictions

Copyright for Official University records is held by Duke University; all other copyright is retained by the authors of items in these papers, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.

Contents of the Collection

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Container List

Conductor's baton

Box 1

Correspondence, 1968-1988

Box 1

Clippings

Box 1

Composition/sheet music notebooks

Box 1

Sheet music

Box 1

Miscellaneous

Box 1

Historical Note

J. Benjamin Smith was born in Nashville, TN and earned a bachelor's degree in piano from the University of Kentucky. He earned a master's degree in sacred music from Union Theological Seminary in New York. He studied privately with the late Nadia Boulanger, an internationally known teacher of organ, composition, theory and conducting. A talented organist, he served at Duke as Director of the Chapel Choir for 20 years. He came to Duke in 1968 and retired in 1988. He led the Men's and Women's Glee Clubs (later merged into the Duke Chorale) and was an assistant professor in the music department. He died on March 21, 1989 at the age of 58.