Mason, Lowell (1792-1872), was an influential American music educator and composer of hymn tunes. He wrote over 1,650 religious compositions and published many popular works, including hymn collections and books on music and music education. His best-known compositions include “Nearer My God to Thee” and “From Greenland’s Icy Mountains.” Mason was the first music teacher in American public schools, and became superintendent of music for Boston public schools in 1838. In 1833, he founded the Boston Academy of Music with George J. Webb. During the latter part of his career, Mason promoted congregational singing and tried to eliminate professional musicians in church services. Mason was born in Medfield, Mass. See also America [hymn] .
