John R. Sweney (1837-1899) was born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and exhibited musical abilities at an early age. At nineteen he was studying with a German music teacher, leading a choir and glee club, and performing at children’s entertainments. By twenty-two he was teaching at a school in Dover, Delaware. Soon thereafter, he was put in charge of the band of the Third Delaware Regiment of the Union Army for the duration of the Civil War. After the war, he became Professor of Music at the Pennsylvania Military Academy, and director of Sweney’s Cornet Band. He eventually earned Bachelor and Doctor of Music degrees at the Academy.
Sweney began composing church music in 1871 and became well-known as a leader of large congregati… Go to person page >
Tune Title: [“Seek ye first the kingdom:” 'Tis the Master's voice]First Line: “Seek ye first the kingdom:” 'Tis the Master's voiceComposer: John R. SweneyDate: 1975
Tune Title: [Seek ye first the kingdom, not the things of the earth]First Line: Seek ye first the kingdom, not the things of the earthComposer: Jno. R. SweneyDate: 1905
Tune Title: [Seek ye first the kingdom, not the things of the earth]First Line: Seek ye first the kingdom, not the things of the earthComposer: Jno. R. SweneyDate: 1902
Tune Title: [Seek ye first the kingdom, not the things of the earth]First Line: Seek ye first the kingdom, not the things of the earthComposer: Jno. R. SweneyDate: 1907
Tune Title: [Seek ye first the kingdom; not the things of earth]First Line: Seek ye first the kingdom; not the things of earthComposer: John Robson SweneyIncipit: 33544 33252 11216Key: G Major