John Robson Sweney

John Robson Sweney (1837–1899) was an American music teacher, composer, conductor, and editor associated with the growth of late nineteenth-century gospel song. Born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, he displayed musical ability early, taught music, directed choirs and singing groups, and studied violin and piano. During the American Civil War he led the band of the Third Delaware Regiment until military bands at that level were discontinued.

After the war Sweney became professor of music at the Pennsylvania Military Academy and remained connected with the institution for many years. He also became prominent in Sunday school and camp-meeting music and worked extensively with fellow composer and editor William J. Kirkpatrick. Together and with other collaborators, he produced numerous collections of gospel songs for churches, Sunday schools, and evangelistic gatherings.

Sweney wrote many hymn tunes and gospel melodies. In 1891 he composed a tune specifically cataloged by its first line, “Sinners, turn; why will ye die?”, for Charles Wesley’s text; it appeared in Cheerful Songs and later in Radiant Songs. That setting is less widely used than MARTYN, PLEYEL’S HYMN, or MESSIAH but is a clearly documented musical pairing with the hymn.