The History of American Classical Music [With CD]

by Barrymore Scherer

This richly detailed narrative tells the stories of America's classical composers, set against significant events in American history.
Acclaimed music writer Barrymore Scherer follows the development of American classical music, from Gershwin, Copland, Bernstein, Joplin, and Sousa, to lesser-known names such as William Henry Fry and Alan Hovhaness. Scherer surveys the period from the Mayflower through the Europe-tribute years to the two world wars and onwards to the growing academic and concert confidence of the post-war period. Broadway, opera, musicals, bandstands, marching bands and piano players all get their place.
The book includes a CD of carefully chosen pieces. Readers also gain access to an exclusive website that offers new essays, the musical works in full, and more. This revolutionary book utilizes traditional and new media to provide a uniquely rounded portrait of the American classical scene and music.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

247 pages, Hardcover

First published September 15, 2007

Reviews

[Joelsie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book delivers on being a history of American classical music, but borders on being a laundry list. Lots of good information, but just as much unnecessary info. It did lead me to many Wikipedia searches to learn more about various composers.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I guess I'm the music nerd who is mad that Scherer did NOT include any score examples. Oh well.

[Don]

Beginning with a fascinating look at the music of the colonial era, this extensive and enjoyable survey covers the development of American music from the early days in the shadow of the European tradition, to late 20th century Minimalism and early 21st century developments. While major and popular composers are documented (Charles Ives and Leonard Bernstein each get a single chapter), many less well-known but nonetheless important composers are discussed, such as Edward MacDowell, Henry Cowell, William Schuman, Elliot Carter, George Crumb, and Joan Tower. Included is an 18-track CD and free access to a dedicated website with hours of extra music [provided by Naxos, the world's leading classical music label, from its American Classics collection]. Links to these music tracks are placed throughout the text.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Far more readable than I expected. I'm really excited about the CD but haven't had a chance to listen to it yet.

[Sofia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not quite what I expected, but a very thorough and well put together book.