Document Type

Finding Aid

Publication Date

8-2025

Abstract

Dr. Paul W. Whear was a noted composer and Marshall University professor and founded the Huntington Chamber Orchestra. Nancy Robinson Voiers Whear was a renowned musician who worked in Morrow Library at Marshall University and wrote several articles that were published. Their children were Allen Whear, violoncellist, brother Bill, a prominent photographer, and Cynthia, another distinguished musician.

The Whear Family Collection includes original compositions and musical scores by Paul W. Whear, research materials used by Nancy Whear, photography by Bill Whear, and documentation of the musical career of Allen Whear. Also included are programs and other materials from the Huntington Chamber Orchestra, documents from the Shenandoah College and Conservatory, and photographs of the Whear and Voiers families. Much of the collection consists of published musical scores arranged by composer, and books on John Marshall and music.

The finding aid includes a comprehensive listing of books that were part of the collection, but many of those listed were not retained. All music publications and compositions are part of the collection.

Rights

Special collections material is obtained from many sources and is intended primarily for research and educational purposes. Certain works may be protected by copyright, trademark, or related interests not governed by the department. It is up to the researcher to verify that they have permission to use these materials for publication or other activities.

Accession Number

2025/08.0895

Access and Use

For more information or to use any of these collections, contact:
Special Collections, Morrow Library
Marshall University
One John Marshall Drive
Huntington, WV 25755
(304) 696-2343
speccoll@marshall.edu

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