George D. Barnard

American composer (October 14, 1857 to January 19, 1933).

One of the earliest published composers of syncopated music, Barnard also contributed to American band music and band programs for youth.
As a youth he received some musical training, and spent much of his own time learning various band instruments. In his early twenties he was able to get a job working for music dealer, instrument maker, and publisher Lyon and Healy of Chicago. By 1890 he was dabbling in composition, and was arranging for Lyon and Healy. In 1897 he wrote his first waltz, followed by the cakewalk tune "Alabama Dreams" in 1899. Most of his compositions over the next few years shied away from syncopation, and were largely comprised of marches, waltzes and overtures. He also composed and arranged for band, including school-age arrangements.