Justin Holland

Justin Holland (July 26, 1819 ) was an American classical guitarist, a music teacher, a community leader, an African American man who worked to help slaves on the Underground Railroad, and an activist for equal rights for African Americans.

Holland was known nationally, not only as a musician but also as a civil rights activist who worked in the same national circles as Frederick Douglass. His goal was to develop his personal growth, in order to stand as an example for others to see. As a teacher, he deliberately chose a "cautious and circumspect" bearing, keeping his relationships with students strictly professional. He chose work that was considered honorable and held high standards, and the professional respect that accompanied his position aided his civil rights goals.

Background Holland grew up in Norfolk County, Virginia, the son of a farmer, Exum Holland. His chief opportunity was at church.

Holland had at least two children. His daughter Clara Monteith Holland was an accomplished pianist and guitarist. Justin Minor Holland, Jr. also a guitarist, was a teacher, composer and the author of Method for the Guitar, published in 1888.

In Cleveland he gave guitar lessons and found a demand for his services. He studied languages, learning Spanish, French, Italian and German. As an adult, between 1848 and 1854, he acted as an assistant secretary and member of council at National and State Negro Conventions. He was secretary of the "Colored Americans of Cleveland". He consciously embraced education and assimilation as the best ways to overcome racial barriers and prejudices.

Arranged La prima donna waltz, 1854 Fra Diavolo, 1858 Fille du regiment, 1868 Lucia di Lamermoor, 1868 Lucrezia Borgia, 1868 Norma, 1868 Oberon, 1868 Rigoletto, 1868 Giertrude's dream waltz, 1871 Delta Kappa Epsilon march, 1881

Works by Justin Holland on IMSLP.