Album insights
America is widely recognized for being the birthplace of jazz and popular songs. The country also boasts a remarkable reputation for its entertainment music, showcasing a greater rhythmic flexibility typical of American popular music. This collection of nineteen pieces spans from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century.
John Philip Sousa's marches are as essential in American entertainment music as the Strauss waltzes are in Europe. Born in Washington DC, Sousa, a mix of Spanish and Bavarian heritage, gained fame with hits like The Washington Post (1889). Another notable figure, Frederick Allen Mills (Kerry Mills), composed catchy character marches, meeting the demand for the Cakewalk dance style. A harmonious blend of entertainment and serious music can be seen in Morton Gould's American Symphonettes, featuring modern interpretations of classic dances.
Felix Arndt composed the rhythmic "Novelty Piece" Nola, honoring his wife, a fellow composer. Arthur Pryor, hailed as the "Paganini of the Trombone," astonished audiences with whimsical pieces like The Whistler and his Dog. Leroy Anderson's repertoire embodies simplicity and charm, with pieces like the upbeat Belle of the Ball and the playful Plink, Plank, Plunk!
At the heart of this collection lies The Arkansas Traveller, a timeless American fiddle tune rich with history and Irish influences. Ethelbert Nevin's melodious works and George Gershwin's blend of jazz and classical compositions showcase the diversity of American music. The whimsical Toy Trumpet by Raymond Scott and the iconic Holiday for Strings by David Rose add a touch of light-heartedness to the orchestral lineup.
Victor Herbert's March of the Toys remains a beloved orchestral gem, while the sophisticated melodies of Edward MacDowell's Woodland Sketches enchant listeners worldwide. The jazzy compositions of Richard Rodgers and the Symphony No 5½ by Don Gillis demonstrate the vibrant fusion of entertainment and classical music in the American musical landscape.