Edward MacDowell was an American composer—and yet, his talent took him to places across Europe. He would go to France and Germany, and thus became a composer who was very well-traveled. He would return to America in 1896, and his return would align with important moments in American history. The People’s Party, a political party that aimed to help to American people, was founded by 2 very important individuals during this time, and it would only grow as time went on. And also during this time, MacDowell wrote his piano work, Sea Pieces, Op. 55. It is a work representing his continued time in America, and his progress as a composer. And it was written during a very important time for all Americans. Today, The Piano Histories Podcast will detail the history behind Edward MacDowell’s Sea Pieces, Op. 55, as well as part of the history of the People’s Party.

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