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What is a Minstrel Song? Minstrel songs were written in the mid-1800s to accompany the minstrel shows for entertainment. These shows were meant to present comedic sketches in the form of plays and musicals. Today, they are most known for the racist connotations and appearance of blackface actors and singers in the musicals. These works
There are numerous popular American hymns that have shaped culture and worship in the United States. On this page, we dive into the different types of American hymns to show their significance and better understand the meaning behind them. American Hymns from 1700-1899 According to research done by many different scholars and organizations, we’ll split
What Are Barber Shop Ballads? Barbershop ballads are a distinctive style of music traditionally performed by a cappella quartets. This style, deeply rooted in American musical tradition, is known for its rich harmonies, sentimental melodies, and emotive delivery. It emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and remains popular in contemporary times, celebrated
Here is a list of World War I music that was written between 1914-1918. These songs from WWI are memorable because of their significance during the war and their impact on the culture during that time. Some of this early 1990s music is even referenced today in popular culture. Music from World War I (1914-1918)
Here is a list of pre Civil War music and songs that were written between 1800-1860. Many of these early 1800s melodies and arrangements are still remembered today for their significance and impact on culture. Music from the Early 1800s
Here is a list of popular post Civil War songs and music in the late 1800s. This music was written from 1866-1899. Some are classical in nature and some are simple songs and melodies that were popular at the time. Music from the Late 1800s
This is excerpt from John Hill Hewitt‘s book Shadows on the Wall or, Glimpses of the Past, where he talks about Anthony Philip Heinrich and their relationship. Father Heinrich. The eccentric Anthony Philip Heinrich, generally known as “Father Heinrich,” visited Washington while I resided in that city, with a grand musical work of his, illustrative
American Civil War music is some of the most emotional and gripping art of the 19th century. The music of the Civil War era captures the trying times that torn a young nation apart. These songs and hymns reflect the feelings of the nation as brother was pitted against brother in the fight to keep
The American Civil War songs were vibrant in style, function, and feeling. Many of the marching songs and hymns are still recognized today for their impact on modern American music. This page is based on the book The Civil War Songbook: Complete Original Sheet Music for 37 Songs written by Richard Crawford. In this book,
William Shakespeare Hays (July 19, 1837 – July 23, 1907) Newcomers to the poetry and songwriting of William Shakespeare Hays might rightly question how a boy born in Louisville, Kentucky in 1837 came to be named in such a way. They would then learn that it was not parental humour, but literary prowess which earned