User:Undead q/Karl Langlotz

Karl A. Langlotz (20 June 1834-25 November 1915) was a German-born faculty member at Princeton University who also composed the music for Old Nassau, the University's anthem. He was born in Saxe-Meininger, Germany, the first son in a family with four daughters. In 1853, he immigrated to New York City from Hamburg, Germany as he could not obtain a visa from his hometown. He married Emma Rae on 10 January 1856, and they had four children, Karl, Clifton, Rae, and Emma.

Involvement with Princeton University

Langlotz was hired by the University as an instructor in the German department and eventually became a professor in both the German and music departments. He taught German from 1857-1869, and he is recorded as saying that because of the University's policy that modern languages were optional, his classes diminished in size until "ten or so faithful ones remained."

Musical Background

As to his musical background, in Weimar he had studied under Franz Liszt and one time he played violin in an orchestra Richard Wagner conducted.

Composition of "Old Nassau"

In 1859, Princeton freshman Harlan Page Peck wrote the words for the alma mater. Originally sung to the tune of "Auld Lang Syne,"

External links

• recording of "Old Nassau" available through the Princeton University Library Rare Books and Special Collections
• Free Culture Chorus recording of "Old Nassau"