Stephen Foster

Stephen Collins Foster (July 4, 1826 – January 13, 1864), known as 'the father of American music', was an influential American composer during the Romantic period. Foster wrote over 200 songs, including 'Oh! Susanna', 'Hard Times Come Again No More', and 'Beautiful Dreamer'. His works, many of which remain popular today, embody the spirit of American parlour and minstrel music. Despite few surviving personal details partly due to his brother Morrison Foster, his legacy endures through his prolific composition career and lasting contributions to American culture.