1917 Portrait of Influential American Composer

This photograph features Rubin Goldmark, an influential American composer and educator, captured on February 28, 1917, by the Bain News Service. Goldmark, born in 1872, was known for his contributions to both classical and popular music during a time when American composers were gaining recognition. He studied under notable figures, including Antonin Dvořák, and later became a prominent figure at the Juilliard School, where he taught music to aspiring musicians.

Goldmarks works often combined elements of European classical traditions with a distinctly American flair. His music reflected the evolving landscape of American culture in the early 20th century. The photograph serves as a snapshot of a pivotal moment in his career, capturing Goldmark during an era when composers were beginning to establish their own identities, independent of European influences. This image not only highlights a key figure in American music history but also provides a glimpse into the artistic environment of the time.