Katherine Kennicott Davis: Fascinating Works and Legacy
Katherine Kennicott Davis (1892–1980) was an influential American composer, arranger, pianist, and educator, best known for her enduring Christmas song "Carol of the Drum," later popularized as "The Little Drummer Boy". Her pieces not only solidified her name in the world of classical music, but also contributed heavily to the holiday music genre.
In this special feature, we invite you to explore her fascinating body of work that includes popular hymns, romantic ballads, and her most famous composition, "The Little Drummer Boy." Katherine Davis' music transcends time, speaking to audiences today just as powerfully as when they were first written.
Life and Education
Born in St. Joseph, Missouri, on June 25, 1892, Davis composed her first piece, "Shadow March," at age 15. She graduated from Wellesley College in 1914, winning the Billings Prize for Musical Composition. Davis studied further at the New England Conservatory of Music and with famed teacher Nadia Boulanger in Paris. Throughout her career, she held teaching positions at Wellesley College and Concord Academy (Massachusetts).
Major Works and Contributions
Davis's most famous song, "The Little Drummer Boy," first published in 1941, is considered her original work. It gained international fame after being recorded by the Harry Simeone Chorale in 1958.
Besides her holiday classic, Davis was a prolific composer and arranger of sacred and secular choral works, children's operettas, cantatas, piano, and organ pieces. Her mastery of composition for choirs is evident in her body of work.
Impact and Recognition
Davis became an ASCAP member in 1941 and was honored with an honorary doctorate from Stetson University. She taught music theory and piano, and served as a mentor to generations of students. Davis left her royalties to Wellesley College to support music students, further cementing her legacy in the field of music education.
Katherine Kennicott Davis on STAGE+
Join us on STAGE+ as we delve deep into the repertoire of Katherine Kennicott Davis. We are proud to present some of her most evocative works fully orchestrated and recorded by leading artists. Find your new favorite piece and gain fresh appreciation for the classics you know and love on STAGE+.