Sheet music:In an Old Dutch Garden (By an Old Dutch Mill)

During the early years of the 20th century, pianos graced the parlors of many middle class American homes. Before the popularity of Radio, sheet music allowed pianists to learn the latest songs as well as old favorites. And instead of gathering around the radio or plopping down in front of the television, a family might gather near the piano in the evening to hear anything from classical tunes to the latest ragtime ditty. Composers and publishers alike all hoped for that runaway hit, and they crafted songs designed to appeal in many ways. One such method was the romantic song of a far-away place. Whether singers had been there or not, it was fun to reminisce along with the lyrics about finding love in a romantic location. And since then, many songs follow this pattern.