Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

December 6, 1887 in Montclair, NJ

Death

:

September 3, 1960 in Brooklyn, NY

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

Joseph Lamb was an American composer and pianist who was born on December 6, 1887, in Montclair, New Jersey. He was the son of a music teacher and began playing the piano at a young age. Lamb's father recognized his son's talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Lamb attended the New York College of Music and studied under the renowned composer and pianist, Percy Grainger. He also studied with other notable musicians such as Charles Hambitzer and Moritz Moszkowski. Lamb's early compositions were heavily influenced by ragtime music, which was popular at the time. In 1908, Lamb's first published composition, "Sensation Rag," was released. The piece was an instant success and helped establish Lamb as a prominent figure in the ragtime music scene. Lamb continued to compose and publish ragtime music throughout his career, with many of his pieces becoming popular hits. Lamb's most famous composition is "The Entertainer," which was published in 1902. The piece gained renewed popularity in the 1970s when it was used as the theme for the movie "The Sting." "The Entertainer" is a classic ragtime piece that features syncopated rhythms and a lively melody. In addition to his ragtime compositions, Lamb also wrote classical music. He composed several piano sonatas, a string quartet, and a symphony. Lamb's classical music was heavily influenced by the Romantic era, with lush harmonies and sweeping melodies. Despite his success as a composer, Lamb struggled financially throughout his life. He worked as a pianist in various venues, including vaudeville shows and silent movie theaters. Lamb also taught music lessons to make ends meet. Lamb's health began to decline in the 1950s, and he suffered a stroke in 1958 that left him partially paralyzed. He continued to compose music, however, and even wrote a piece for the New York Philharmonic. Joseph Lamb passed away on September 3, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York. He left behind a legacy of ragtime and classical music that continues to be celebrated today. Lamb's compositions have been recorded by numerous artists and are still performed in concerts and recitals around the world. In conclusion, Joseph Lamb was a talented composer and pianist who made significant contributions to the ragtime and classical music genres. His compositions continue to be enjoyed by music lovers today, and his legacy as a pioneering figure in American music is secure.

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