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Root (GEORGE FREDERICK an American)

GEORGE FREDERICK, an American musician and song-writer; born in Sheffield, Mass., Aug. 30, 1820. His first song, "Hazel Dell" (1853), was very popular. It appeared as the work of "Wurzel," the German name for "Root," a pseudonym he often used later. Among the most popular of his songs are: "Rosalie, the Prairie Flower" (1855); "Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom" (1861); "Just Before the Battle, Mother" (1863); "Tramp, Tramp, Tramp, the Boys are Marching" (1864); and the well-known quartet, "There's Music in the Air." His cantatas include "The Flower Queen" (1852) and "The Haymakers" (1857).

He did much to elevate the standard of music in the United States, and also published methods for the piano and organ, handbooks on harmony and teaching, etc.

He died Aug. 6, 1895.