Dr. Oliver H. Kleinschmidt McKendree College Professor of Music 1928-1953

Dr. Oliver H. Kleinschmidt taught at McKendree College from 1928-1953. He served as head of the Fine Arts Division and taught piano, organ and theory. During World War II, McKendree College had at least one semester with fewer than 90 students enrolled, not enough to support the staff and facilities; still the doors remained open. This was possible through the effort, sacrifice and dedication of the total college staff. To honor the faculty and staff members of those difficult years, they were recognized in a ceremony that was held in connection with the 1991 commencement. They were identified as McKendree Stalwarts and plaques were placed in the chapel to recognize these individuals; Dr. Kleinschmidt was one of these "stalwarts". In 1963 Dr. Kleinschmidt was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music by McKendree College at the May Commencement ceremony. Dr. Kleinschmidt passed away on October 3, 1964.

All four of Dr. Kleinschmidt's children graduated from McKendree College and three of them became professional musicians in New York. Dr. Kleinschmidt's second wife was also a graduate of the McKendree Music Department.

Dr. Kleinschmidt was widely known as an organist and composer, winning the American Guild of Organists prize for one of his organ compositions. Mara Levinsohn, one of Dr. Kleinschmidt's daughters and a supporter of the music program, donated these compositions to McKendree. The Music Department and Holman Library are pleased to be able to display these for the campus community.

A Sampling of Items from the Display
Score: American Processional
Score: Valse Caprice
Sheet Music Cover: Compositions for the Piano
Sheet Music Cover: Evening Reverie
Sheet Music Cover: Meadowbrook
Sheet Music Cover: Recital