Women of distinction/Chapter 26

CHAPTER XXVI.

MADAM LILLIAN R. BUNDY.

This lady, eminent in her profession, was born and educated in New England, where she received a very thorough English and classical education, graduating with honors from the Warny, R. I., Academy, where she had spent much time in study under the honorable Professor Isaac B. Cady. At the age of seven years she began the study of music under the most proficient masters of that day—Prof H. P. Pierce and Prof Ebon Tonyee of the Boston Conservatory, under whom she finished as teacher of the piano, church organ and vocal music. At the age of fifteen she made her debut at a grand Organ Recital, given at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, of which her parents were the only colored members. It was at this very aristocratic cluirch that she received the high praises of the entire audience and competent judges as being master of the immense organ, which she manipulated with perfect ease and grace. She has, since this great triumph, filled positions of honor among the wealthy masses of New England cities; was the first colored teacher and singer in old Mixion Academy of Language at Providence, R. I. , serving for a period of four years and teaching many pupils of both races.

Soon after coming to New York her services were engaged as organist at the renowned Shiloh Presbyterian Church, of which Rev. Henry Hyland Garnet, D. D., was pastor for nine years.

Although it is said that prejudice exists to an extent in that city, she can boast of some of the wealthiest white people among her scholars and patrons. Prof. G. Jardine, of great organ fame, quotes her as being the most brilliant colored organist of the city. With a most graceful and attractive appearance she has a bright future before her.

Madam E. R. Bundy is one of whom the race may well be proud as a skilled and noted musician.