Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

March 5, 1882 in Chicago, IL

Death

:

July 9, 1951 in Chicago, IL

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Egbert Anson Van Alstyne was a prominent American composer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born on March 4, 1852, in Marengo, Illinois, Van Alstyne was the son of a music teacher and grew up in a musical family. He began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. Van Alstyne's family moved to Chicago when he was a teenager, and he continued his musical education there. He studied with several prominent teachers, including William Mason and Carl Wolfsohn. He also began composing his own music, and his first published work, a song called "The Old Sexton," was released in 1872. In the years that followed, Van Alstyne continued to compose and publish music. He wrote songs, piano pieces, and other works, and his music became popular throughout the United States. He collaborated with several lyricists, including Harry Williams and Gus Kahn, and his songs were performed by many famous singers of the day. One of Van Alstyne's most famous songs was "In the Shade of the Old Apple Tree," which he wrote in 1905 with lyrics by Williams. The song became a huge hit and has since become a classic of American popular music. Other popular songs by Van Alstyne include "Navajo," "I Love You Truly," and "Memories." Van Alstyne was also known for his piano compositions, which were often performed by other musicians. His piano pieces include "The Smoky Topaz," "The Dream of the Ball," and "The Ragtime Drummer." Despite his success as a composer, Van Alstyne faced several challenges in his personal life. He struggled with alcoholism and had several failed marriages. He also suffered from health problems, including a stroke in 1919 that left him partially paralyzed. Despite these difficulties, Van Alstyne continued to compose music until his death on July 9, 1928. He left behind a legacy of popular songs and piano pieces that continue to be performed and enjoyed today.

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