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David Barnett

1907 – 1985

American composer

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About David Barnett

Lived 1907 – 1985 (aged 77–78). David Barnett was an American composer, music educator, music journalist and pianist.

David Barnett (December 1, 1907 in New York City – December 1985) was an American composer. He graduated from Columbia University and later studied music at the Curtis Institute in Philadelphia and Juilliard School in New York City. Barnett then studied piano with Alfred Cortot in Paris, where he received his teaching degree. At this time, he also made his debut as a concert pianist and composer. Returning to the U.S., Barnett taught piano and music theory, and continued touring and composing.

Barnett taught at Harvard, Columbia, Wellesley and the New England Conservatory of Music. He also served as Headmaster of the Thomas School in Rowayton, Connecticut, and taught at the University of Bridgeport. Barnett is a published author, as well, including two books: Living With Music and They Shall Have Music. Barnett died in 1985.

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Important facts

Born
1907, New York
Birth century
Died
1985
Nationality
Education
Juilliard School, Columbia University, Curtis Institute of Music
Employers
Harvard University, Columbia University, Wellesley College, New England Conservatory

People in David Barnett's life

Named in this biography and alive at the same time

Contemporaries

People whose lives overlapped David Barnett's

Frequently asked questions

Who was David Barnett?

American composer

When was David Barnett born?

David Barnett was born in 1907 in New York.

When did David Barnett die?

David Barnett died in 1985.

What was David Barnett's occupation?

David Barnett was a composer, music educator, music journalist and pianist.

What nationality was David Barnett?

David Barnett was American.

Sources & further reading

· Wikipedia: David Barnett

· Wikidata: Q5231142

· DBpedia: David Barnett (composer)

Cite this page

APA: Biography.guide. (2026). David Barnett. https://biography.guide/david-barnett/

MLA: "David Barnett." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/david-barnett/.

Chicago: "David Barnett." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/david-barnett/.

Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.

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