Leroy J. Robertson, a renowned Mormon composer and teacher, was born on December 21, 1896, in Utah. He developed a passion for music at a young age and began his musical education early on. After completing his high school education, he pursued a degree in music and graduated with diplomas in Composition, Violin, and Piano from the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music in 1923.
Robertson's career in music began to flourish when he was appointed as Professor and Chairman of the Music Department at Brigham Young University (BYU) in 1925. He held this position until 1948, during which time he made significant contributions to the music department and the university as a whole. Robertson was known for his innovative compositions, with works like Songs from the Shadow gaining him widespread recognition in the music industry.
One of his most notable achievements was the creation of an Oratorio from the Book of Mormon, which included a stirring rendition of The Lord's Prayer. The piece became a commercial success, managing to crack the top 50 on the music charts upon its release. Robertson's compositions were praised for their depth and emotional resonance, earning him a reputation as a gifted composer with a unique musical voice.
Robertson's musical influence extended beyond his own work, as his daughter, Marian Robertson Wilson, followed in his footsteps and became a respected cellist. The Robertson family's legacy in the music industry continued to inspire future generations of musicians and composers.
In addition to his successful career as a composer, Robertson was also known for his academic achievements. He studied under prominent composers such as Ernest Bloch and Roger Sessions, further honing his skills and expanding his musical knowledge. Robertson's expertise and dedication to music education left a lasting impact on the BYU music department and paved the way for future generations of music students.
Leroy J. Robertson passed away on February 25, 1971, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire and educate musicians around the world. His innovative compositions, dedication to music education, and influence on future generations of musicians solidify his place as one of the most important figures in the history of American music.