Final answer:
The statement that a European composer was needed to show American composers the value of African American and Native American music is false. American music has independently recognized and integrated cultural influences, creating internationally recognized hybrids such as Stephen Foster's compositions and Scott Joplin's Ragtime.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that it took a European composer to point out to American composers the richness of African American and Native American music is false. American music has long been a hybrid of European and African musical traditions, with the earliest example being the 19th-century composer Stephen Foster. Foster, considered by many as "America's Original Pop Star," blended African American music from boatmen with his classical training under a German music teacher, creating hits like 'Oh Susanna' and 'Camptown Races' that gained international fame. Similarly, African American composer Scott Joplin, known as the King of Ragtime, brought forth an original American sound that greatly influenced music globally without the need for European intervention to highlight its value.
The history of American music shows a pattern of creating hybrids from different cultures and making groundbreaking musical styles that were recognized and appreciated both nationally and internationally. It showcases the contributions of various cultures, including African American, Native American, and European influences, contributing to the rich diversity of American music. This highlights the independence and intrinsic value of American music that was recognized and celebrated without the sole intervention of European composers.