[Borges]

European models would be Offenbach, Strauss Jr., Sullivan. I left out Louis Moreau Gottschalk who was using Milhaud-like Afro-Cuban rhythms in the 1840s and '50s.

I highly recommend Joseph Horowitz's book 'Classical Music in America' which is comprehensive in its scope of this period.

[aristotleman]

Thanks for the recommendation, I’ve been looking for some insight into that period -largely ignored in music history classes (even here!).

About the european bridge composers:

I forgot about Offenbach and Strauss. I don’t remember reading anywhere about the level of acceptance or disapproval they enjoyed amongst their more serious colleagues.

[aristotleman]

Thanks for the recommendation, I’ve been looking for some insight into that period -largely ignored in music history classes (even here!).

About the european bridge composers:

I forgot about Offenbach and Strauss. I don’t remember reading anywhere about the level of acceptance or disapproval they enjoyed amongst their more serious colleagues.

[RedRover]

Louis Moreau Gottschalk bump! "Bamboula" is one of my all-time favorite pieces for piano. I visited Congo Square some years back and actually found it to be a very emotional experience.