John powell biography

American pianist, ethnomusicologist and composer (1882–1963)

For the film composer, see John Powell (film composer).

John Powell (September 6, 1882 – August 15, 1963) was an American pianist, ethnomusicologist and composer.

Along with Annabel Morris Buchanan, he helped found the White Top Folk Festival, which promoted music of the people in the Appalachian Mountains.^[1] A firm believer in segregation and white supremacy, Powell also helped found the Anglo-Saxon Clubs of America, which soon had numerous posts in Virginia.

John powell age

He contributed to the drafting and passage of the Racial Integrity Act of 1924, which institutionalized the one-drop rule by classifying as black (colored) anyone with African ancestry.

Early life and education

Powell was born and grew up in Richmond, Virginia.

He graduated from the University of Virginia in 1901 and studied piano with Theodor Leschetizky and composition in Vienna with composer Karel Navrátil.