This month marks the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War, which had tremendous impact on American music. Clara Louise Kellogg, the first American-born singer to achieve success in Europe, began her career shortly before the war broke out. Before she could have any hope of success abroad, she had to be successful at home. Of course, the war made that difficult.

Kellogg was born in Sumterville, South Carolina in 1842, but her parents moved to Derby, Connecticut later that year. Once her musical talent became evident, the family moved to New York City so she could receive a proper education. After joining a touring operatic company, she made her debut in New York as Gilda in Rigoletto on February 26, 1861. The opera company in New York kept her happily busy for several weeks. Then war broke out in April. Continue reading →