Christopher Lynch

Christopher Lynch, a musicologist and Head of the Theodore M. Finney Music Library, delves into the legacy of Stephen Foster, America's once-celebrated but often misunderstood composer. He discusses how myths surrounding Foster's life and music evolved, revealing the complexities of his songs and their ambiguous meanings. Lynch tackles the impact of family narratives on Foster's reputation and examines archival gaps, including biases in documenting his legacy. His insights challenge traditional biographies, highlighting the intertwined history of race, music, and American identity.