Rediscovering Forgotten Composers with the Help of Online Genealogy and Music Score Databases: A Case Study on African-American Composer Jacob J. Sawyer (1856–1885)

Abstract

This paper describes the reconstruction of life and work of African-American composer Jacob J. Sawyer (1856–1885) with the help of genealogy databases and online collections of music scores. During his life, Sawyer held positions with well-known music ensembles: Haverly’s Colored Minstrels, Hyers Sisters Troupe, and Slayton Ideal Company.

Keywords

• jacob j. sawyer
• 19thcentury
• african-american composer
• minstrelsy
• piano music