The British Musical Biography

[E] Turnbull, John, composer and writer,
born at Paisley, January 12, 1804. He was
precentor of New Church, Ayr, 1827, and
afterwards precentor of St. George's Church,
Glasgow, 1833. He died at Glasgow, Novem-
ber 1, 1844. Published "A selection of or-
iginal Sacred Music, in vocal parts . . adapted
to the various metres used in Presbyterian
churches and chapels . . Glasgow, 1833 (form-
ing vol. 6 of Steven's Sacred Music). "The
Sacred Harp, a selection of the most approved
sacred melodies, ancient and modern.... by
Robert Burns. Edited with a complete course
of initiatory lessons and practical examples
in the art of Singing, by John Turnbull,"
Glasgow [1840] , 2 editions. The Garland of
Scotia, a musical wreath of Scottish Songs,
with descriptive and historical notes, Glasgow,
1841 (with Patrick Buchan). Easy and pro-
gressive exercises in Singing and in reading
music, Glasgow, n.d. Six Glees, for three
and four voices, Glasgow, n.d. He issued an
edition of R. A. Smith's Devotional Music,
and composed a number of anthems, psalms,
and songs, of which " Jeannie Lee" and
" Thistle and the Briar " are the best.

entry id: 419-R-25