Victor Herbert (1859-1924) was an Irish-American composer, cellist, and conductor known primarily for his contributions to the genre of operetta. He was a significant figure in the development of American musical theater and is often regarded as one of the pioneers of the American operetta style. **Notable Works:** Herbert composed over 40 operettas, with some of his most famous works including: - *Babes in Toyland* (1903) - *The Fortune Teller* (1898) - *Naughty Marietta* (1910) - *Eileen* (1917) His music is characterized by its lyrical melodies, rich orchestration, and integration of popular themes of the time. **Impact on Music:** Victor Herbert's influence extended beyond his own compositions; he helped establish a distinctly American sound in musical theater, blending European operetta traditions with American musical idioms. His work laid the groundwork for later composers such as George Gersh