Rubin Goldmark

Rubin Goldmark (August 15, 1872 – March 6, 1936) was an American composer, pianist, and educator. He is best known as the teacher of other important composers, including Aaron Copland and George Gershwin.

Early life

Rubin Goldmark was born in New York City in 1872, a nephew of composer Karl Goldmark, and of Jewish heritage.

Return to the United States After the conclusion of his studies in Vienna, Goldmark returned to United States. From 1891 to 1893 he taught piano and music theory at the National Conservatory of Music in New York City. While in New York, Goldmark also studied composition with Antonín Dvořák and piano with Rafael Joseffy. Goldmark moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, hoping to improve his poor health,

Upon Goldmark's return to New York in 1902, he focused much of his energy on teaching. Over the 30-year period that Goldmark remained in New York he gave over 500 lectures on music, music theory, and composition, while continuing to compose. He was also the founder and frequent speaker at The Bohemians, a New York musicians' club.

In 1924, Goldmark became the head of composition at the recently opened Juilliard School of Music in New York City.

Musical works Goldmark's music was performed regularly during his lifetime. His Negro Rhapsody was among the most performed pieces in the seven years following World War I. In 1910, he was also awarded the 1909 Paderewski Prize for Chamber Music. His other important works include Hiawatha, The Call of the Plains, and his Requiem. Goldmark's nationalism is clearly evident from many of the titles of his works – even the ambiguously titled Requiem (perf. 1919) was inspired by Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. Goldmark's other compositions include a string quartet, a piano trio, a violin sonata, several orchestral pieces, piano music, and songs.