The aim of this biographical dictionary is to treat each composer, and particularly those living, in depth; to provide heart, flesh and sinews to the bare bones of biographical information available in existing dictionaries and encyclopedias; to gather details and specifics that should, once and for all, be permanently recorded for the present and preserved for the future. This dictionary also aspires to embrace in each biography a succinct description...

Contains 146 biographies of the composers and lyricists who have earned an enduring place in the history of the American popular song.

The author traces the development of Gershwin from his childhood on New York's East Side, through the introduction of his vital new music, to his present status as one of America's most beloved composers. With a wealth of firsthand information, obtained from the Gershwin family, personal letters, scrapbooks, diaries, and interviews with more than sixty of Gershwin's most intimate friends and colleagues. He also provides the ultimate illumination of...

Traces the history of solo instrumental and chamber music discussing important composers and their works.