RIAMCO

Rhode Island Archival and Manuscript Collections Online

For Participating Institutions

John B. Archer Collection (MSS023)

Providence Public Library

150 Empire Street
Providence, RI 02903
Tel: 401-455-8000
E-mail: ricoll@provlib.org

Historical note

Operettas or Comic Operas became popular in England in the mid 19th century. Gilbert and Sullivan rose to popularity, and their style inspired many other composers to create similar experiences. These comic operas typically featured elaborate plots and humorous dialogue, and almost always ended happily.

John B. Archer was born in North Andover, MA, on October 24th, 1872. He authored numerous Comic Operas, many of which were performed in Rhode Island. A composer, he also directed choral arrangements and lectured on choral music and on composers. He conducted the Choral Art Society of Providence. He also gave a series of talks on international music. He died on February 6th, 1954 and is buried in Swan Point Cemetery.