Master of the Light Classic: Leroy Anderson

The composer of ‘Sleigh Ride’ helped define America’s spirit of optimism at mid-century

Composer Leroy Anderson personally conducted the premieres of his works in recording sessions with Decca Records. Decca Records

The United States had led the Allies to victory in World War II, and with the war over, members of “The Greatest Generation” looked forward to getting back to civilian life, making a living, and spending time with their growing families.

Jane Anderson Vercelli looks back on her early years growing up in Connecticut with great fondness. “It was an idyllic time. It was an idyllic childhood,” remembers the oldest child of American composer Leroy Anderson.