Alec Wilder, prolific & talented composer & popular songwriter, has written the first authoritative, fully analytical study of the development of American popular song.

This book is, without question, the best of its type. The late Alec Wilder, (1907 - 1980) a well known and respected composer in his own right, has written an amazingly detailed and learned book on America's gift to the world of popular music. The period covered starts at the beginning of World War 1 and ends at 1950. Within this time span, the great majority of the well known and loved popular songs were written. All of the outstanding composers, Kern, Berlin, Gershwin, Rodgers, Porter, Arlen etc receive full critical evaluation, and most of their compositions are discussed and analysed in depth. Many other composers and their works also receive the author's attention and critical comment. For those who read music, the book contains many musical extracts which provide fascinating insights into the structure of many of the tunes covered. Please note, however, that the book is concerned only with the music. The lyrics are not discussed. The late Mr Wilder had some very strong opinions about quite a few of the compositions. You may not always agree with him, but I guarantee that if you have a love of "The Great American Songbook", you'll be fascinated by what he has to say in this outstanding publication dedicated to an authentic American art form.