She was born in St. Joseph, Missouri, on June 25, 1892, and composed her first piece of music, "Shadow March," at the age of 15. She graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1910, and studied music at Wellesley College in Massachusetts. After her graduation, she continued at Wellesley as an assistant in the Music Department, teaching music theory and piano. At the same time, she studied at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. Davis also studied with Nadia Boulanger in Paris.
She taught music at the Concord Academy in Concord, Massachusetts, and at the Shady Hill School for Girls in Philadelphia. Many of her over 600 compositions were written for the choirs at her school.
Her most famous composition, "The Little Drummer Boy" (originally titled "The Carol of the Drum"), which she wrote in 1941, became famous when it was recorded by the Trapp Family Singers.
She was a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) and was granted an honorary doctorate from Stetson University, in DeLand, Florida.
She left all of the royalties and proceeds from her compositions, which include operas, choruses, children's operettas, cantatas, piano and organ pieces, and songs, to Wellesley College's Music Department. These funds are used to support musical instrument instruction.
Katherine K. Davis continued writing music until she became ill in the winter of 1979-1980. She died on April 20, 1980, at the age of 88, in Littleton, Massachusetts.
Do You Hear What I Hear?
Katherine K. Davis Lyrics
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Pay no attention to what's said
Why people tear the seam of anyone's dream is over my head
Do nothin' till you hear from me
At least consider our romance
If you should take the word of others you've heard
Don't you know, I haven't a chance
True I've been seen with somebody new
But does that mean that I'm been untrue?
When we're apart the words in my heart reveal how I feel about you
Some kiss may cloud my memory
And others arms may hold a thrill
But please do nothin' till you hear from me
And baby you never will
The lyrics of Katherine K. Davis's song "Do You Hear What I Hear?" convey a sense of yearning, uncertainty, and pleading for trust and understanding in a romantic relationship. The singer instructs their partner to "do nothin' till you hear from me," advising them not to pay attention to gossip or rumors about the singer's actions or intentions. There is a plea for the partner to consider the true feelings and intentions behind the singer's actions and not jump to conclusions based on hearsay.
The singer expresses confusion and exasperation at the tendency of people to undermine or sabotage the dreams and happiness of others. The line "Why people tear the seam of anyone's dream is over my head" suggests that the singer is unable to comprehend the motives behind the negativity or interference that may be impacting their relationship. This reflects a sense of frustration and helplessness in the face of external interference or misunderstanding.
The song delves into themes of fidelity and trust, as the singer defends their actions and reassures their partner of the sincerity of their feelings. Despite being seen with someone new, the singer insists that their heart belongs to their partner and that their actions do not reflect a lack of loyalty or commitment. The lyrics suggest that physical proximity or momentary distractions do not change the depth of the singer's emotional connection and fidelity to their partner.
In the final stanza, the singer acknowledges the potential for other kisses or embraces to cloud their partner's memory or bring temporary excitement. However, there is a plea for patience and faith in the relationship, with the reminder to "do nothin' till you hear from me." The singer affirms their unwavering dedication and urges their partner to trust in the strength of their love and connection. The song conveys a message of loyalty, vulnerability, and a plea for understanding and trust in the face of external doubts and challenges.
Lyrics © Freibank Musikverlags und vermarktungs GmbH, MUSIC SALES CORPORATION, Kanjian Music, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: DUKE ELLINGTON, BOB RUSSELL
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind