John La Montaine, American pianist and composer (b. 1920)

John Maynard La Montaine, a distinguished American pianist and composer, whose name later evolved to LaMontaine, left an indelible mark on 20th and early 21st-century classical music. Born in Oak Park, Illinois, on March 17, 1920, and passing away on April 29, 2013, he achieved early acclaim by winning the prestigious 1959 Pulitzer Prize for Music, solidifying his place among America's significant musical voices.

Early Life and Influences

La Montaine's foundational musical education was shaped by some of the most influential figures of his time. He pursued his studies under the guidance of American luminaries such as Howard Hanson, a prominent composer and long-standing director of the Eastman School of Music, known for his championing of American music, and Bernard Rogers, another esteemed composer and pedagogue. Crucially, his tutelage also included the legendary French instructor Nadia Boulanger, whose profound impact on generations of composers, from Aaron Copland to Philip Glass, is well-documented. This diverse and rigorous education provided La Montaine with a rich understanding of both European tradition and the burgeoning American soundscape, informing his unique compositional voice.

A Pulitzer-Winning Masterpiece

The pinnacle of La Montaine's early recognition came with the 1959 Pulitzer Prize for Music, awarded for his Piano Concerto No. 1, aptly titled "In Time of War." This powerful work, completed in 1958, resonated deeply with the anxieties and solemnity of the Cold War era, making its title particularly poignant and reflective of global tensions. Its world premiere was notably delivered by the acclaimed Cuban-American pianist Jorge Bolet, whose virtuosic interpretation brought the concerto to life and introduced it to a wider audience, establishing it as a significant contribution to the piano concerto repertoire.

Collaborations and Notable Performances

The caliber of artists who chose to perform La Montaine's compositions speaks volumes about their quality, depth, and appeal. His works graced the stages with voices of unparalleled brilliance, including operatic legends like the incomparable Leontyne Price, the majestic Jessye Norman, and the celebrated Eleanor Steber, alongside the exquisite Adele Addison and Donald Graham. The distinguished pianist Jorge Bolet, who premiered his Pulitzer-winning concerto, also championed his other pieces, affirming La Montaine's status among contemporary composers and ensuring his music reached discerning audiences through world-class interpretations.

A Bicentennial Celebration: "Be Glad Then America"

A significant highlight of La Montaine's career unfolded in 1976 when the United States celebrated its Bicentennial, a momentous national anniversary. He received a major commission from the Penn State Institute for Arts and Humanistic Studies to create a choral work befitting this grand occasion. The result was the ambitious opera, Be Glad Then America, a celebratory and historically reflective piece. It was performed by the University Choirs under the masterful direction of the pioneering conductor Sarah Caldwell, known for her innovative operatic productions. Adding a unique cultural layer, the iconic folk singer Odetta lent her powerful voice and presence to the role of the Muse for America, bridging classical and folk traditions in a truly memorable and historically resonant collaboration.

Later Life, Legacy, and Publishing

For a significant portion of his life, La Montaine made his home in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, a hub for creative endeavors. Like many composers seeking greater control over their intellectual property and the dissemination of their works, he established his own publishing house, Fredonia Press. Intriguingly, the company's name was a direct nod to Fredonia Street, the very thoroughfare in Hollywood where La Montaine resided. In this professional venture, he partnered with fellow composer and pianist Paul J. Sifler (1911–2001), whose collaboration undoubtedly supported La Montaine's creative output and professional pursuits, allowing his music to reach performers and audiences more directly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was John Maynard La Montaine?
John Maynard La Montaine (later LaMontaine) was a distinguished American pianist and composer, born in Oak Park, Illinois (1920–2013), best known for winning the 1959 Pulitzer Prize for Music.
What was La Montaine's most famous work?
His most famous work is undoubtedly his Piano Concerto No. 1 "In Time of War" (1958), which earned him the 1959 Pulitzer Prize for Music.
Who were John La Montaine's notable teachers?
He studied under influential figures such as Howard Hanson, Bernard Rogers, and the legendary French pedagogue Nadia Boulanger.
Which famous performers played La Montaine's music?
His works were performed by renowned artists including Leontyne Price, Jessye Norman, Adele Addison, Donald Graham, Eleanor Steber, and the esteemed pianist Jorge Bolet.
What was Be Glad Then America?
Be Glad Then America was an opera commissioned from La Montaine for the American Bicentennial celebration in 1976, performed by the Penn State University Choirs and directed by Sarah Caldwell, with folk singer Odetta appearing as the Muse for America.
Did La Montaine have his own publishing company?
Yes, he established Fredonia Press, a publishing company named after Fredonia Street in Hollywood, Los Angeles, where he resided. His business partner in this venture was composer and pianist Paul J. Sifler.