American Composers of Our Time

In addition to the book's obvious reference value, it is a readable record of American music from the late 19th Century Edward MacDowell to the here-and-now composer, Lukas Foss. In covering the contributions of such men as Gershwin, Thomson, barber, Harris, Menotti and Bernstein, the author takes an approach that is saved from monotony by the differences of the composers involved and by his own conversational style. In each case he first gives an anecdotal report of the life, scrutinized for the significant detail; next comes the record of musical education, influences and motivations; this is followed by a discussion of musical contributions in terms of style and intent and, perhaps more important, their niche in the international world of music's development. The pieces discussed are well recorded and easily obtainable. A comprehensive glossary is planned and a selected list of books for further reading. This should find its place next to Bakeless' Story-lives of American Composers. (Kirkus Reviews)