Louis Gottschalk

The pianist Louis Gottschalk was a musical magpie, collecting influences from around the world and stitching them together into singular compositions. Few other composers, before or since, have embraced influence with such zeal. Gottschalk borrowed eagerly from Caribbean, Latin American, and Creole traditions as he meandered through Cuba, the West Indies, Puerto Rico, and elsewhere, giving concerts and sampling local customs. Born in New Orleans, introduced early to the piano, Gottschalk was anointed by Frédéric Chopin, who recognized his nascent genius. Gottschalk achieved early success in Europe, and during his life, fame followed him in every direction.