Frederic Woodman Root (June 13, 1846 – November 8, 1916) Frederic Woodman Root was born in Boston in 1846, son of George Root, a well known songwriter at the time. His mother, Mary Olive Root, was also a famous singer, thus, Root grew up surrounded by music. At just 5 years old, his father had
George Frederick Root (August 30, 1820 – August 6, 1895) George Frederick Root was an influential songwriter, born in August 1820, in Sheffield, Massachusetts. His work mainly focused on issues regarding the American Civil War. As a young boy, Root trained on piano under the guidance of George J. Webb, and also studied the flute alongside this.
Victor August Herbert (February 1, 1859 – May 26, 1924) Victor August Herbert was born on the island of Gurnsey in 1859. He was an American born composer of Irish ancestry. Herbert began his musical career at the age of 15, learning instruments such as the piano and piccolo. He then decided to settle on the
Every state in the United States has adopted an official state song. Some of the states have changed their state songs over times, but most of them have kept the same song since they adopted it. These state songs provide an interesting view into the history of each state and what type of environment the
What are American Spirituals? American spirituals are worship songs, hymns, and music written to honor and praise God. Many of these pieces of music are historical and cherished today for not only their message but also their musical brilliance. American spirituals, also known as Negro spirituals, are a genre of songs that originated in the
What is Ragtime Piano Music? Ragtime piano music is genre of music that often has syncopated melody lines and well accented accompaniments. This style of piano playing started in the 1890s by African American musicians. It made a profound impact on popular music in its day and still can be heard today. Ragtime piano music,
What are Naval Songs? Naval songs have played an important role in US Navy history as well as US military history. Naval music is traditionally patriotic in nature and often expresses the anguish of sailor while displaying his loyalty to the country and his duty. Naval songs, also known as sea shanties or sailor songs,
What are Folk Songs and Folk Music? Folk songs and folk music has played an important role in popular music not just in America, but throughout the world. Folk songs are a genre of music deeply rooted in the cultural traditions and experiences of a community or nation. Often passed down orally through generations, these
What is Blues Music? Blues music has a rich history in America. With its roots deeply fixed in culture and the struggles of its time, blues music has shown how music can be used to express emotions with or without words. Blues music is a genre deeply rooted in African American history and culture, arising
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