May 8 - Louis Moreau Gottschalk (The Musical Birthday Series)

Louis Moreau Gottschalk (8 May 1829 – 18 December 1870) was the first American piano virtuoso to gain an international reputation.  He was successful playing his own compositions. 

Louis Louis

When Louis Moreau Gottschalk’s toured

To Latin ports of call,

His glitzy novelties ensured

Astonishment from all,

With rhythms from his Creole roots,

And banjo imitations,

With operatical salutes,

And tunes from many nations.

And if his musical appeal

Is light and meretricious,

It’s safe to say not every meal

Is meant to be nutritious.