Justin Morgan

Biography During the colonial period, there was a lot of work to do everywhere, and people worked very long hours every day, though most tried to rest on Sunday. Even on the day of rest, there was still the work of feeding both people and animals. Justin Morgan’s life was no different. He was born … Continue reading Justin Morgan

Johann Pachelbel

Johann Pachelbel lived from 1653-1706 in Germany. He left many compositions, including the very well-known Canon in D, and he instructed many students, including Johann Christoph Bach (older brother and guardian to Johann Sebastian Bach). It may seem strange to include Pachelbel with a group of innovative American composers that we’ll study this year since … Continue reading Johann Pachelbel

Louis Armstrong

Trumpet player and vocalist Louis Armstrong (1901-1971) was one of the world’s greatest jazz musicians. Born in New Orleans, he spent his youth in a home for trouble children before he made his way to Chicago and New York to play with several different well-know jazz bands. His jazz style and repertoire was unique because … Continue reading Louis Armstrong

George Gershwin

Biography George Gershwin, 1898-1937, was one of the most well-known pianists in history. He turned out an enormous amount of music before his life was cut short by a brain tumor. Lucky for us, he was one of the first musicians for whom we have recorded video of him playing. While you can probably find … Continue reading George Gershwin