Jaromir Weinberger (1896-1967) was a Czech composer who emigrated to the United States and eventually became a US citizen. His opera Schwanda the Bagpiper is his most famous contribution to the standard repertoire. While the opera was wildly popular following its premiere in 1927, today it is all but forgotten, and its concert suite, Polka and Fugue from Schwanda the Bagpiper, is performed much more frequently than the opera itself.
As a side note, this opera has a fantastic German name: Schwanda der Dudelsackpfeifer.
Jaromir Weinberger on wikipedia.
Extensive article on Weinberger at the Orel Foundation, a group dedicated to uncovering neglected works of 20th century composers.
Description and plot synopsis of Schwanda the Bagpiper at boosey.com.
Link to the Naxos CD recording of the opera, as well as a thoughtful article about it and the composer.
Finally, an excellent recording by the University of Texas Symphony Band. Not much to look at, but great listening.
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