| Quick Info | |
|---|---|
| Name | Zilphia Horton |
| Date of Birth | April 14, 1910 |
| Profession | Musician |
| Place of Birth | Paris |
| Home Town | Île-de-France |
| Country | France |
| Date of Death | 1956-04-11 |
| Place of Death | Nashville, TN |
| Cause of Death | Natural Causes |
| Manner of Death | Kidney Failure |
| Institute | University of the Ozarks |
| Spouse | Myles Horton |
Early Life and Education
Zilphia Horton was born in Paris, France on April 14, 1910, but spent most of her childhood in Île-de-France. She showed an early talent for music, learning to play the piano and violin at a young age. Her passion for music led her to pursue a degree in music education at the University of the Ozarks in Arkansas.
Musical Career
After graduating from college, Zilphia Horton began her career as a music teacher, but soon found her true calling in folk music. She became involved in the labor movement and began collecting and recording traditional songs from working-class communities. Her work with the Highlander Folk School in Tennessee brought her into contact with influential musicians such as Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie.
Influence on the Civil Rights Movement
Zilphia Horton’s music played a crucial role in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Her adaptation of traditional songs like “We Shall Overcome” became anthems for the movement, inspiring activists and protesters across the country. Her work with the Highlander Folk School helped to train a new generation of leaders in nonviolent protest tactics.
Marriage to Myles Horton
Zilphia Horton’s marriage to Myles Horton, the founder of the Highlander Folk School, was a partnership that shaped both of their careers. Together, they worked to promote social justice and equality through education and music. Their collaboration on projects like the “Singing for Freedom” workshops helped to spread the message of the civil rights movement to a wider audience.
Legacy
Zilphia Horton’s untimely death in Nashville, TN in 1956 from kidney failure was a tragic loss for the world of music and activism. However, her legacy lives on through her music and her influence on the civil rights movement. Her work continues to inspire musicians and activists to this day, reminding us of the power of music to bring about social change.
Net Worth 2024
While Zilphia Horton’s net worth at the time of her death in 1956 is not publicly available, her wealth was derived from her work as a musician and educator. She dedicated her life to promoting social justice and equality, rather than accumulating personal wealth. Her impact on the civil rights movement and folk music scene far outweighed any monetary value.
Summary
Zilphia Horton was a trailblazing musician and activist whose work continues to inspire generations of artists and activists. From her early days in France to her time at the University of the Ozarks, she dedicated her life to promoting social justice through music. Her marriage to Myles Horton and her work with the Highlander Folk School were instrumental in shaping the civil rights movement. Despite her untimely death, Zilphia Horton’s legacy lives on through her music and her impact on social change.