Details

Subject(s)

• Musicals—New York (State)—New York—History and criticism [Browse]
• Musicals—New York (State)—New York—Chronology [Browse]

Summary note

"Song of the Season is for those who believe that the score is at the heart of a musical and is the essential building block on which the rest of a show is built. Through a systematic historical survey from 1891 to 2023 it argues that the best musicals survive because of their songs, from early 20th century classics such as Show Boat and Oklahoma! through to the contemporary sound of Dear Evan Hansen and Hamilton. looking at outstanding songs from each Broadway season, the development and history of the musical is illustrated with a fresh perspective. As song styles and popular music tastes changed throughout the decades this structure charts the progress of American showtunes alongside popular music forms as songs evolved from the waltz and ragtime to jazz, rock, rap and hip-hop. Factual analysis and historical context combine to offer a rich picture of the American songbook from Irving Berlin to Elton John. Song of the Season paints a fresh picture for musical theatre students and fans alike, illustrating significant changes in the form through the music. Analyzed in an accessible and engaging way that doesn't rely on music theory knowledge, and including a link to playlist where all the 'songs of the seasons' can be listened to, it is a must-have for those looking to expand their knowledge of the form and trace the social history of the American showtune."--Back cover.

Bibliographic references

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Contents

• Preface
• Guide to musical terms
• List of seasons, songs, and musical sources
• 1891-1899 seasons
• 1900-1919 seasons
• 1920-1939 seasons
• 1940-1959 seasons
• 1960-1979 seasons
• 1980-1999 seasons
• 2000-2023 seasons.

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ISBN

• 9781350423725 ((hardback))
• 1350423726
• 9781350423718 ((paperback))
• 1350423718

LCCN

2023036731

OCLC

1395071517

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