Miss Pearl Brice
c. late 19th century
Oil on canvas. Woman standing playing violin.
Milwaukee has had a rich musical tradition since the formation of the Milwaukee Beethoven Society in 1843. This society was grown out of the large numbers of German immigrants flooding into the Milwaukee area as early as 1839. Over the next few years multiple groups were cultivated and grew within the German circles that enjoyed singing during their gatherings. This furver for music eventually resulted in the formation of the Milwaukee Musical Society in 1850. Miss Pearl Brice is considered a pioneer in the history of Milwaukee music. Early musicans, such as her, and enthusiastic singers contributed to the growth of these societies. Their work and effort culminated in 1899 with the formation of three professional musical institutions in Milwaukee, the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, the Wisconsin College of Music, and the Marquette School of Music.
