Lowell Mason was an American composer and music educator who played a major role in shaping church music in the United States. He promoted musical literacy and introduced European musical standards into American worship. His work helped establish the foundations of modern church music education.
His compositions include the tunes for Nearer My God to Thee, Joy to the World, and My Faith Looks Up to Thee. His melodies became widely used in American hymnals.
Mason collaborated with many American ministers and musicians and helped organize musical societies that promoted church music education.