. . . besides innumerable good old tunes running in our heads; [theres] a sense of having actually lived in the years [covered by] this book. mdash; The International MusicianMusic has always played an important part in American life--from the hymns sung in colonial days; to partisan songs that supported independence; and war songs that boosted morale. Immigration; westward movement and industrialization all helped contribute to Americas musical archives. This outstanding collection of 100 all-time favorite songs offers an unbeatable combination: the music and lyrics of well-known tunes in easy-to-sing keys; together with equally entertaining background information on each song. Assembled by noted composer; arranger and musical director Theodore Raph; this impressive volume spans 300 years--from the haunting strains of Greensleeves to songs that reached new peaks of popularity in the 1950s (Hes Got the Whole World in His Hand).Perfect for party sing-alongs or for ones own enjoyment; these appealing songs all made past his parades. Yankee Doodle was "on the charts" during the Revolutionary War; Clementine and Sweet Betsy from Pike were widely hummed; sung; whistled and played in the mid-nineteenth century. Shell Be Comin Round the Mountain and Wabash Cannonball heralded the era of transcontinental railroad construction; and regional songs such as My Old Kentucky Home; On the Banks of the Wabash; and Home on the Range became nationwide favorites.Easy-to-play piano accompaniments; guitar chords and complete lyrics make these familiar melodies ideal ice-breakers on picnics; boating excursions; camping trips and a host of other group activities. Because theyre in the public domain; these tunes are also desirable for professional and commercial use. (No permission or royalty payments necessary!) Singers; pianists; students; teachers mdash; songsters at all levels of expertise mdash; will be delighted with these musical moments from bygone eras.
#1470397 in eBooks 2012-07-26 2012-07-26File Name: B008SA8088
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. The book is an updated and practical reference.By Antonio NeyIt will be very useful in my communication with the actors. as a director who takes their perspectives on the theatrical productions.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Fabulous...By AlexaTruly inspirational for aspiring actors!
