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NLS: That All May Read

Music Instructional Cassette Catalog: Biography

Composers || Conductors || Educators || Performers || Songwriters

Composers

Bach, Johann Sebastian

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Bach: CBM 1623

Bartók, Béla

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Bartó: CBM 1662

Beethoven, Ludwig van

Beethoven the Incredible: CBM 369; Fictionalized account of Beethoven's life.
Beethoven, the Man: CBM 1513
Beethoven, the Man Who Set Music Free: CBM 938; Biography of Beethoven and excerpts from his music.
Beethoven, Revolutionary Artist: CBM 1514
Ludwig van Beethoven: CBM 84; Biography of the composer who believed that music was a branch of moral philosophy and that musical sounds were the very stuff and substance of political and religious life.
The Music of Beethoven: CBM 28; Outlines the career of the great German composer.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Beethoven: CBM 1628

Berlioz, Hector

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Berlioz: CBM 1633

Bizet, Georges

Life and Music of Georges Bizet: CBM 987; The life and work of Georges Bizet with excerpts from Carmen, his best known opera.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Bizet: CBM 1644

Boulez, Pierre

Experiments in Electronics: CBM 330; Composer-conductor Pierre Boulez discusses his search for a new musical language.

Brahms, Johannes

Brahms: CBM 627; Description of life and musical style of the great German composer, accompanied by the excerpts of his major works.
Johannes Brahms: CBM 85; Biography of the composer.
The Music of Brahms: CBM 164; Describes the life and work of the composer, a leading figure in the German romantic movement. Includes selections from his compositions.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Brahms: CBM 1642

Britten, Benjamin

Benjamin Britten, the Early Years: CBM 1518

Buxtehude, Dietrich

Lübeck, the Abendmusiken concerts established by Dietrich Buxtehude: CBM 389; Discussion of Buxtehude's fame as an organist, influence as a composer, and role in establishing the Abendmusiken, a series of concerts held on the five Sundays preceding Christmas. Includes a performance of Buxtehude's sacred solo cantata, Laudate Dominum.

Chopin, Frédéric

Frédéric François Chopin: CBM 102; Biography of the composer.
Poet of the Piano-Chopin: CBM 371; Fictionalized biography of Frédéric Chopin, illustrated with orchestral versions of his piano music.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Chopin: CBM 1635

Copland, Aaron

An Aaron Copland Portrait: CBM 134; Interview with Aaron Copland, who discusses the use of folk material in his opera The Tender Land, and a performance by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Copland, of two suites from the opera.
Copland, Gershwin, and Piston: CBM 25; A discussion of three contemporary American composers who have achieved international prominence.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Copland: CBM 1666

Corelli, Arcangelo

Corelli and Vivaldi: Their Lives and Their Music: CBM 1292; Narrated by Ward Botsford

Debussy, Claude

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Debussy: CBM 1655

Dohnanyi, Ernst von

Ernst von Dohnanyi: CBM 149; Dohnanyi plays his compositions and talks about his musical career.
Ernst von Dohnanyi in Concert: CBM 148; Dohnanyi tells of his early concert days.

Donizetti, Gaetano

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Donizetti: CBM 1632

Dvorák, Antonin

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Dvorák: CBM 1647

Ellington, Duke

Duke Ellington: CBM 933; Mike Whorf interviews friends and relatives of the pianist, bandleader, and composer of more than one thousand pieces.

Falla, Manuel de

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: de Falla: CBM 1661

Faure, Gabriel

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Faure: CBM 1650

Foster, Stephen Collins

Beautiful Dreamer: CBM 930; Biography and music of the American songwriter Stephen C. Foster.
The Foster Nobody Knows: CBM 988; Biography of Stephen Foster and a glimpse into the legacy of his naturally beautiful melodies, which have been enjoyed for generations.

Franck, César

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Franck: CBM 1640

Gershwin, George


Copland, Gershwin, and Piston: CBM 25; A discussion of three contemporary American composers who have achieved international prominence.
George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue: CBM 891; The story behind writing this composition and performing it with Paul Whiteman in New York. Gershwin cut the piano roll used for this performance.
Gershwin: CBM 709; Description of life and musical style of Gershwin, accompanied by several excerpts of his major works and numerous popular songs.
The Gershwin Years: CBM 614/CBM 615; Overview of Gershwin's life, with several songs from stage musicals, including "Yankee Doodle Blues," "Somebody Loves Me," "Clap Yo' Hands," and "Bess, You Is My Woman."
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Gershwin: CBM 1665

Gluck, Christoph

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Gluck: CBM 1625

Gottschalk, Louis Moreaux

America's First Superstar: CBM 951; Biography of Louis Moreaux Gottschalk, who used American folk music in his compositions. Selections heard are "Bamboula" and "A Night in the Tropics."

Grieg, Edvard

Grieg: CBM 998; Biography and music of the Norwegian born composer who wove the folk melodies and rhythms of his homeland into his works.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Grieg: CBM 1648

Handel, George Frideric

The Music of Handel: CBM 140; Details Handel's career as a composer.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Handel: CBM 1624

Haydn, Franz Joseph

Franz Josef Haydn: CBM 104; Introduction to the composer's life.
Haydn: CBM 706; Description of life and musical style of the great Austrian composer, accompanied by the excerpts of his major famous works.
Josef Haydn: CBM 671; Biography plus musical examples.
The Music of Haydn: CBM 165; Describes the finer points of Haydn's music as seen in his Symphony no. 94 and his Concerto for trumpet and orchestra.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Haydn: CBM 1626

Henze, Hans Werner

Spotlight on Hans Werner Henze: CBM 290; A contemporary German composer discusses the successful opera.

Herbert, Victor

The Legend of Victor Herbert: CBM 612; Focus on Victor Herbert, one of the founders of ASCAP, covering his varied career as composer of the operetta Babes in Toyland, bandmaster of New York's Twenty-Second Regiment Band, and conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.
Victor Herbert: CBM 585; Biography. Herbert's failure at composing serious pieces for the opera and violoncello resulted in the operetta Naughty Marietta, a forerunner of musical comedy. Includes selections from Victor Herbert's musical comedies.

Hoddinott, Alun

Moelwyn Merchant Talks with Composer Alun Hoddinott: CBM 321; The composer talks about his and other composers' work. Includes excerpts from Hoddinott's works.

Ives, Charles

Charles Ives: Fascination with What Is Difficult; Erik Satie: Man in the Grey Velvet Suit: CBM 1509; Gilbert Highet discusses the lives of two composers, Charles Ives and Erik Satie. He explores the influences that shaped their compositions.

Janácek, Leos

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Janácek: CBM 1654

Johnson, James P. (James Price)

James P. Johnson: CBM 858; The composer of "Charleston" and "If I Could Be with You" ranked along with Scott Joplin and Jelly Roll Morton as the "father" of the eastern Harlem stride style.

Liszt, Franz

Franz Liszt: CBM 673; Biography plus musical examples.
Liszt: CBM 708; Description of music and musical style of the great Hungarian composer and pianist, accompanied by the excerpts from his most important works.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Liszt: CBM 1637

Mahler, Gustav

Recollections of Mahler: CBM 108, CBM 628; Musicians, acquaintances, and Mahler's daughter describe their experiences with this composer and discuss his personal and professional life.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Mahler: CBM 1652

Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, Felix

Felix Mendelssohn: CBM 161; Discusses the life and music of Felix Mendelssohn.
Felix Mendelssohn: CBM 674; Biography plus musical examples.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Mendelssohn: CBM 1634

Monteverdi, Claudio

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Monteverdi: CBM 1619

Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus

The Music of Mozart: CBM 27; The third movements from Mozart's Piano Concerto no. 26 in D major and his Sinfonia Concertante in E-flat major illustrate Mozart's musical development.
Profile: Mozart: CBM 962; The universal genius and unique style of Mozart are discussed along with his personal life. Excerpts from his music are performed.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Mozart: CBM 1627

Mussorgsky, Modest

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Mussorgsky: CBM 1645

Offenbach, Jacques

Death in A Major: CBM 970; The story of Offenbach's near lifelong quest of a haunting melody, his famous "Barcarolle."

Palestrina, Giovanni

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Palestrina: CBM 1618

Piston, Walter

Copland, Gershwin, and Piston: CBM 25; A discussion of three contemporary American composers who have achieved international prominence.

Prokofiev, Sergei

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Prokofiev: CBM 1664

Puccini, Giacomo

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Puccini: CBM 1651

Purcell, Henry

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Purcell: CBM 1620

Rachmaninoff, Sergi

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Rachmaninoff: CBM 1658

Rameau, Jean Philippe

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Rameau: CBM 1622

Ravel, Maurice

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Ravel: CBM 1660

Rimsky-Korsakov, Nikolay

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Rimsky-Korsakov: CBM 1649

Rossini, Gioacchino

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Rossini: CBM 1631

Saint-Saëns, Camille

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Saint-Saëns: CBM 1643

Satie, Eric

See entry under Ives, Charles

Schoenberg, Arnold

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Schoenberg: CBM 1659

Schubert, Peter Franz

Franz Schubert: CBM 672; Biography plus musical examples.
Peter Franz Schubert: CBM 101; Story of the composer who sank so low into poverty that he couldn't afford to rent a piano to do his writing. Most of his works were not performed until years after his early death at thirty-one.
Schubert: CBM 707; Description of life and musical style of the great Austrian composer, accompanied by numerous excerpts from his works.
Schubert: CBM 1512
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Schubert: CBM 1629

Schuman, William

Close-up on William Schuman: CBM 286; Reminiscences of the educational administrator, president of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, and composer.

Schumann, Robert

Robert Schumann: CBM 14; David Randolph discusses the life of the composer who set out to become the world's greatest pianist, but lost the use of his hand and died impoverished. Illustrated with numerous examples of Schumann's compositions for piano, orchestra, instrumental ensembles, and voices.
A Tribute to Schumann: CBM 924; The life and work of Robert Schumann. Several of his piano works and songs are performed.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Schumann: CBM 1636

Schutz, Heinrich

Dresden: CBM 384; Lecture on Heinrich Schutz, stressing Schutz's importance in applying Italian polychoral style and dramatic monody to German church music; motets from Schutz's Symphoniae Sacrae.

Shostakovich, Dmitri

Shostakovich and Stravinsky: CBM 301; Lecture on the life and work of two leading Russian composers.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Shostakovich: CBM 1667

Sibelius, Jean

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Sibelius: CBM 1656

Sousa, John Philip

John Philip Sousa: CBM 297; Discussion concerning the great composer's life, highlighted by comments of friends and associates.
Marching Along: CBM 851; John Philip Sousa, born in Washington, D.C., in 1854, wrote over one hundred marches. His band performed from 1892 to 1931. Interviews with his daughter Helen and friend Meredith Willson, and examples of his music such as El Capitan.
The Sousa Nobody Knows: CBM 971; Explores other compositions Sousa wrote besides his well-known marches. A tango called Gliding Girl, composed in 1912, is among the selections.

Strauss, Johann

Johann Strauss II: CBM 710; Description of life and music of the Waltz King, with numerous excerpts from his famous works.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: J. Strauss: CBM 1641

Strauss, Richard

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: R. Strauss: CBM 1653

Stravinsky, Igor

Tchaikovsky, Peter

The Music of Tchaikovsky: Music by the Melancholy Russian: CBM 23; Excerpts from The Nutcracker Suite, Sleeping Beauty, and Symphony no. 4, showing how Tchaikovsky's music is rooted in Russian folk music.
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky: CBM 194; David Randolph introduces many of Tchaikovsky's compositions.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Tchaikovsky: CBM 1646

Tippett, Michael

Sir Michael Tippett: CBM 1519; Biography and discussion of the composer's life. Includes interview with Tippett and others, and extensive musical extracts.

Vaughan Williams, Ralph

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Vaughan Williams: CBM 1657

Verdi, Giuseppe

A General Lecture on Verdi: CBM 1336; This composer, born into abject poverty, was to become one of the greatest opera composers of all time. There is also a comparison of Il Trovatore and Aida, two of his greatest works.
The History Makers: Giuseppe Verdi: CBM 405; Narrated by John Green
The Master of Melody-Verdi: CBM 948; Biography of the renowned opera composer, his tragedy and triumphs. Excerpts from his operas are heard.
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Verdi: CBM 1639

Vivaldi, Antonio

Corelli and Vivaldi: Their Lives and Their Music: CBM 1292; Narrated by Ward Botsford
The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Vivaldi: CBM 1621

Wagner, Richard

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: Wagner: CBM 1638

Walton, William

Sir William Walton: CBM 1520; Biography and discussion of the composer. Includes interview with Walton and others and extracts from his works.

Weber, Karl Maria von

The World's 50 Greatest Composers: von Weber: CBM 1630

Weill, Kurt

The Musical Maverick: CBM 611; Covers the varied career of Kurt Weill, composer of such operas as Threepenny Opera and Mahagonny and such popular songs as "Mack the Knife" and "September Song." His collaborators Ira Gershwin, Langston Hughes, and Ogden Nash tell their stories about his work in America.

The World's 50 Greatest Composers

Johann Sebastian Bach CBM 1623

Béla Bartók CBM 1662

Ludwig van Beethoven CBM 1628

Hector Berlioz CBM 1633

Georges Bizet BM 1644

Johannes Brahms CBM 1642

Frédéric Chopin CBM 1635

Aaron Copland CBM 1666

Claude Debussy CBM 1655

Gaetano Donizetti CBM 1632

Antonin Dvorák CBM 1647

Manuel de Falla CBM 1661

Gabriel Fauré CBM 1650

Cesar Franck CBM 1640

George Gershwin CBM 1665

Christoph Gluck CBM 1625

Edvard Grieg CBM 1648

George Frideric Handel CBM 1624

Franz Joseph Haydn CBM 1626

Leos Janácek CBM 1654

Franz Liszt CBM 1637

Gustav Mahler CBM 1652

Felix Mendelssohn CBM 1634

Claudio Monteverdi CBM 1619

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart CBM 1627

Modest Mussorgsky CBM 1645

Giovanni da Palestrina CBM 1618

Sergei Prokofiev CBM 1664

Henry Purcell CBM 1620

Giacomo Puccini CBM 1651

Sergi Rachmaninoff CBM 1658

Jean-Philippe Rameau CBM 1622

Maurice Ravel CBM 1660

Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov CBM 1649

Gioacchino Rossini CBM 1631

Camille Saint-Saëns CBM 1643

Arnold Schoenberg CBM 1659

Franz Schubert CBM 1629

Robert Schumann CBM 1636

Dmitri Shostakovich CBM 1667

Jean Sibelius CBM 1656

Johann Strauss CBM 1641

Richard Strauss CBM 1653

Igor Stravinsky CBM 1663

Peter Tchaikovsky CBM 1646

Ralph Vaughan Williams CBM 1657

Giuseppe Verdi CBM 1639

Antonio Vivaldi CBM 1621

Richard Wagner CBM 1638

Karl Maria von Weber CBM 1630

Conductors

Ormandy, Eugene

Spotlight on Eugene Ormandy: CBM 265; The conductor reminisces about his boyhood, Vienna, and other musicians.

Stokowski, Leopold

A Leopold Stokowski Profile: CBM 162; Autobiographical account of Stokowski's unusual range of musical activity.

Szell, George

Maestro George Szell: CBM 472; A great conductor demonstrates his artistry in these rehearsals and concerts.

Toscanini, Arturo

Maestro Arturo Toscanini: CBM 270; This tribute to the famed maestro includes a discussion of his life and work as a conductor, composer, and teacher.
The Man and the Legend-Arturo Toscanini: CBM 913; Called saint and demon, tyrant and democrat, it was an epic experience to play under this great musician of the world. Music by Beethoven is heard.

Educators

Boulanger, Nadia

Focus on Nadia Boulanger: CBM 296; Nadia Boulanger, distinguished teacher of Aaron Copland and numerous other successful composers, discusses her teaching philosophy and comments on success in the world of music.
The Influence of Nadia Boulanger: CBM 173; Nadia Boulanger explains how she develops her students' creative abilities and musical artistry.
Music for Children: CBM 263; Interviews with Doreen Hall, a leading exponent of the Orff system of music education; Donald Himes, a teacher of eurhythmics; and Derek Healey, a composer.

Performers

Astaire, Fred

The Legend of Fred S. Astaire: CBM 819; Biography of Fred Astaire, dance master of the stage and screen. Music such as "Dancing Cheek to Cheek" is featured.

Austin, Gene

The Legend of Gene Austin: CBM 826; Describes Austin as a kind and generous human being, whose legacy can be summed up by the dictum to embrace the present. "My Blue Heaven," "Ain't Misbehavin'," "Lonesome Road," and "Melancholy Baby" are heard.

Baez, Joan

The Singer as Activist: CBM 113; Interview with folk singer Joan Baez and her family and friends. Discusses her career and her involvement with the Monterey Institute for the Study of Nonviolence.

Beiderbecke, Bix

Bix Beiderbecke: CBM 1523

Belafonte, Harry

Spotlight on Harry Belafonte: CBM 287; A prominent black singer and entertainer discusses his life on stage.

Benny, Jack

Jack Benny: CBM 881; Biography of the much loved entertainer who never aged beyond thirty-nine years, played the violin, and personified a vain and miserly character.

Blake, Eubie

Eubie Blake: CBM 1521
Memories of Eubie: CBM 728; The ninety-six-year-old ragtime musician reminisces about his many years in show business. He also plays "Charleston Rag," "Memories of You," and "If You've Never Been Vamped by a Brownskin."

Borge, Victor

Clown Prince of Denmark: CBM 1002; Biography, music, and comedy of Victor Borge. Includes the story of a Mozart opera and phonetic punctuation.

Brice, Fanny

Fanny: CBM 925; A legend in her time, Fanny Brice began her stage career at age fourteen and was a show stopper from her first performance. Original excerpts from her performances are heard.

Britto, Carol

Carol Britto: CBM 1245; For two decades she delighted Toronto jazz fans. Carol Britto has returned to her native country, making waves on the New York music scene with her impressive piano skills. Britto discusses her career.

Burton, Gary

Gary Burton: CBM 1249; Although his main instrument is the vibraphone, he has taught piano at the Berklee College of Music for many years. Gary Burton performs "Turn Out the Stars." Marian McPartland interviews Burton and the two blend talents on a duet of "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes."

Cage, John

John Cage and Burl Ives: CBM 1516

Calloway, Paul

See entry under Duncan, Todd

Cantor, Eddie

Gerald Marks on Eddie Cantor: CBM 876; Interview with composer and historian of Tin Pan Alley, Gerald Marks, and his recollections of the "saucer-eyed" entertainer, Eddie Cantor. Songs heard briefly are "Ma," "Makin' Whoopee," and "Ida."

Caruso, Enrico

Hall of Fame: Enrico Caruso: CBM 989; Biography of the world-famous tenor who was among the first of leading musicians to recognize the value of the phonograph.

Casals, Pablo

Spotlight on Pablo Casals: CBM 293; The renowned cellist discusses his music and ideals.

Chaplin, Charlie

The Comedian: Charlie Chaplin: CBM 986/CBM 1186; Biography of the world famous comedian, Charlie Chaplin. Includes his childhood and early stage appearances. Timely and humorous music interspersed throughout.

Chevalier, Maurice

Close-up on Maurice Chevalier: CBM 320; An entertainer recalls his love affairs with Parisian and American audiences.

Colianni, John

John Colianni: CBM 1235; At fifteen he demonstrates his abilities with a composition of his own, "Slow Blues." A powerful duet of "Get Happy" concludes a session with Marian McPartland.

Columbo, Russ

The Legend of Russ Columbo: CBM 833; A crooner of the 1930s who reflects on the slowdown in musical style after the stock market crash. "Time on My Hands," "Sweet and Lovely," and "All of Me" are among the songs included.

Copeland, Johnny

Johnny Copeland: CBM 1232; The singer and guitarist explains the difference between Texas country blues and Texas city blues and why his music is often considered the quintessence of just plain Texas blues.

Corea, Chick

Chick Corea: CBM 1250; The multitalented musician plays selections from a variety of musical genres- from big band to jazz-rock fusion. In "Piano Jazz," recorded at Corea's own California studio, the prolific composer joins Marian McPartland for a dazzling mix of talk, improvisations, and musical portraits.

Crosby, Bing

Close-up on Bing Crosby: CBM 284; A giant in show business tells the story of his life and work with the easy style that was his trademark for two generations.

Dapogny, James

James Dapogny: CBM 1254; A specialist on piano music from the turn of the century to World War II tells his favorite tales of the legendary Jelly Roll Morton and plays tunes by Morton and Gershwin.

Disney, Walt

Walt Disney's Dream Factory: CBM 846; Biography and excerpts of music from Disney's movies such as "Chim Chim Cher-ee" sung by Dick Van Dyke, "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf," and "Alice in Wonderland."

Duchin, Peter

Peter Duchin: CBM 1257; He began studying music at five and went on to lead his own orchestra. This demonstration features Duchin in a solo of Gershwin's "Someone to Watch Over Me."

Duncan, Todd

Todd Duncan and Paul Calloway: CBM 83; Todd Duncan, the original Porgy in Porgy and Bess, and Paul Calloway, the Washington Cathedral's director of music, discuss their difficulties in achieving success.

Durante, Jimmy

The Legend of Jimmy Durante: CBM 828; "The Great Durante" began his career as a ragtime pianist in 1913. Reminiscences of his radio days include portions of broadcasts and songs he played and sang.

Eldridge, Roy

Roy Eldridge: CBM 1238; In this demonstration the great jazz trumpet stylist displays his piano abilities by playing several of his own works and a composition penned by both Marian McPartland and Eldridge, the "M and R Blues."

Ellington, Duke

Duke Ellington: CBM 1522
Things Are Just like They Used to Be: CBM 980; Anecdotes and facts about the man Duke Ellington and his big-band style of arranging. "Chattanooga Choo Choo" and "Perdido" are heard.

Elman, Mischa

The Art of Mischa Elman: CBM 958; Biography of the pioneer of the "Russian School" of violin playing. Some familiar tunes are played in this highly romantic style.

Fields, Gracie

Gracie Fields Forever: CBM 868; Through recordings and recorded interviews, the life of this famous English music hall queen is traced. Beginning as a professional singer at the age of sixteen, she made her last appearances at age seventy. Introduced by Stanley Holloway.

Gilmore, P. S.

Super Salesman of Music: CBM 943; Biography of the extraordinary band master of the 1800s who traveled the country producing musical events. Choral and orchestra music are performed.

Gluck, Alma

The Legend of Alma Gluck: CBM 829; Alma Gluck, operatic soprano born in Romania in 1884, came to New York as a child. She sang for Toscanini in 1909. They became lifelong friends. Featured songs are from her operatic roles.

Gould, Glenn

Glenn Gould on the Moog Synthesizer: CBM 244; Glenn Gould talks about the Moog synthesizer used in the production of the recording Switched-on Bach. Includes interviews with synthesizer performer Wendy Carlos and Canadian poet Jean Le Moyne.

Grillo, Frank "Machito"

Machito: CBM 1190; Pays tribute to the late Cuban musician Frank "Machito" Grillo, universally acclaimed as the first musician to blend jazz with Latin American sound. Includes interviews with Machito, as well as with those who knew him. (This tape contains material on one side only.)

Guthrie, Woody

Legend of a Balladeer: CBM 912; Biography of Woody Guthrie, who traveled the land and wrote songs about American life. "This Land Is Your Land" and "Roll on, Columbia" are among the musical selections.

Hancock, Herbie

Herbie Hancock: CBM 1229; His mastery of both acoustic piano jazz and electronic jazz-rock-funk has propelled him to stardom. Herbie Hancock discusses his role in the film Round Midnight, plays "Chan's Song," written especially for the film, and joins Marian McPartland for their own version of "That Old Black Magic."

Hawkins, Coleman

Spotlight on Coleman Hawkins: CBM 264; Friends and colleagues reminisce about the jazz musician's career. Includes a recording of his last performance.

Heifetz, Jascha

The World's Greatest Violinist: CBM 203; Interview with renowned violinist Jascha Heifetz. Includes performances.

Hines, Earl

Fatha Hines Groove: CBM 54; Traces the development of Hines's unique jazz piano style throughout the long span of his career.

Holiday, Billie

Billie Holiday: CBM 822; Biography of the blues singer. Examples of her sensitive style include both upbeat and blues songs. Some backings are played by Teddy Wilson and Lester Young.

Holly, Buddy

Buddy Holly: CBM 900; Buddy Holly's legacy of rock and roll music influenced such performers as Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, and the Beatles. "Well, That'll Be the Day" is heard.

Hopkins, Lightnin'

Focus on Lightnin' Hopkins: CBM 292; In this documentary, the blues singer and guitarist reminisces about the early days of his career and performs many of his songs.

Jackson, Mahalia

Mahalia Jackson Discusses "Movin' on Up": CBM 231; Interview with the great black singer, who describes her strong faith and the hymns and spirituals she sings that reinforce her faith.

Jarvis, Jane

Jane Jarvis: CBM 1258; An executive for Muzak, former organist with the New York Mets, and now a headliner in premier jazz clubs, Jarvis plays a solo version of "The Bounder." A duet of "J and M Blues" concludes this interview by Marian McPartland.

Jessel, Georgie

The Legend of Georgie Jessel: CBM 816; Old radio broadcasts illustrate his wit along with songs and comments about his life and career.

Jolson, Al

I'd Rather Please You than Anyone: CBM 815; Jessel eulogizes Al Jolson whose popularity spanned the 1920s to 1950s. This in-depth biography of the great entertainer includes the song "My Mammy."
The Legend of Al Jolson: CBM 824; Famous for his black face, white gloves, and bended knee, the minstrel man became a legend in his own time. Born in 1886, he went from vaudeville to Broadway. Includes "My Mammy," his memorable specialty.

Jones, Oliver

Oliver Jones: CBM 1247; His renditions of "Street of Dreams" and "Straight, No Chaser" have earned this Montreal native international recognition. The endearing Oliver Jones talks about his career and tells stories of his childhood friend Oscar Peterson.

Joplin, Janis

Janis Joplin: CBM 899; Biography of the electrifying performer born in Port Arthur, Texas, who died at age twenty-seven of a heroin overdose. Includes several of her emotionally charged songs.

Keene, Constance

Constance Keene: CBM 726; Constance Keene discusses her performances at the Menuhin Festival in Stadt, Switzerland, and her teaching experiences at the Manhattan School of Music. She believes that music schools are admitting too many unprepared and untalented students.

Khan, Bismillah

Spotlight on Bismillah Khan: CBM 313; Discusses the art, daily life, and music of Bismillah Khan, exponent of India's subtle and complex music played on the shannai, a double reed instrument.

Kirkland, Kenny

Kenny Kirkland: CBM 1239; While still in his twenties, he has already made thirty recordings and worked with an impressive range of artists-from Wynton Marsalis to Sting. Kenny Kirkland talks with Marian McPartland and performs a two-piano version of "Billy's Bounce" with her.

Kitt, Eartha

Eartha Kitt: CBM 725; A candid interview with the singer-dancer. She talks about her life as a poor orphan growing up in the South and her rise to international stardom and self-acceptance.

Kreisler, Fritz

The Legend of Fritz Kreisler: CBM 1196; This famed violinist was born in Vienna in 1875. He toured the United States in 1888 before making his debut in Berlin. Two featured selections are "Rondino" based on a theme by Beethoven and "Caprice" by Kreisler.
Spotlight on Fritz Kreisler: CBM 288; Fritz Kreisler comments on music in general, his successful career, his collection of violins, and his family. Selections from performances are included.

Laine, Jack

Pappa Jack the Patriarch: CBM 279; On his ninetieth birthday, Pappa Jack Laine reflects on his role in the development of jazz.

Landowska, Wanda

Focus on Wanda Landowska: CBM 160; Wanda Landowska describes her affinity for the harpsichord and her thoughts about music, her career, and life in general.

Lanza, Mario

Mario Lanza: CBM 896; Koussevitzky was instrumental in giving the Philadelphia-born legendary tenor his beginning. Excerpts from operas and "Granada."

Lauder, Harry

Harry Lauder Special: CBM 1010; Scotsman who created a character of fact and fancy toured the United States extensively for twenty-five years beginning in 1907. He sings several Scottish songs.

Ledford, Lily May

The Life and Music of Lily May Ledford: CBM 778; Appalachian musician Lily May Ledford plays her fiddle and banjo, and describes efforts to preserve old-time Appalachian music traditions.

Lewis, Ted

The Legend of Ted Lewis: CBM 827; His trademarks-a top hat, cane, and clarinet-gave him his distinction. He performed for nine presidents during his career.

MacDonald, Jeanette

Queen of the Sentimental Love Song: CBM 341; Summarizes the film career of Jeanette McDonald, the twenty years from 1929 to 1949. Gives the background of her films, costars, and songs.

Marley, Bob

The Music and Marley: CBM 717; An interview with Bob Marley, who, until his death in 1981, was considered the living symbol of Jamaica and its Reggae music.

Marsalis, Ellis

Ellis Marsalis: CBM 1234; He is the father of two popular American jazz artists: Wynton and Branford Marsalis. This teacher, performer, and recording artist, credited with instilling a love for music in all his children, talks about and plays his own compositions and combines talent with Marian McPartland for their version of "Blue in Boogie."

McCormack, John

The Irish Nightingale: CBM 1195; John McCormack, contemporary of Caruso, had a way with words which made him a leading singer of his day. "Where the River Shannon Flows" and a 1916 recording of "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" are heard.

McKeller, Kenneth

Troubadour in Tartan: CBM 923; The Scottish singer Kenneth McKeller sings in much the same style as John McCormack. Among the musical selections are "Danny Boy" and "I Hear You Calling Me."

Menuhin, Yehudi

Menuhin and Ayrton: CBM 374; Michael Ayrton, noted sculptor, painter, and writer, discusses the responsibilities of gifted musicians and artists with Yehudi Menuhin, well-known violinist.
Yehudi Menuhin, Man and Musician: CBM 69; The renowned violinist whose musical career began before the age of three discusses his experiences as a child prodigy and as a mature musician.

Miller, Kid

Focus on Kid "Punch" Miller: CBM 291; Tribute to black trumpet player "Punch" Miller, known in the New Orleans of the 1920s and 1930s as "King of the Blues."

Miller, Mulgrew

Mulgrew Miller: CBM 1243; In an interview with Marian McPartland, Miller and McPartland take turns on Art Tatum tunes, and the two combine forces on Cole Porter's "What Is This Thing Called Love?"

Mingus, Charlie

Charlie Mingus Speaks Out: CBM 183; Charlie Mingus talks about life, love, education, religion, children, women, men, and injustice, from the black perspective.

Morgan, Helen

The Legend of Helen Morgan: CBM 812; Songs and the story of Helen Morgan's life and theatrical career. Vocal samples include "Bill," "Can't Help Lovin' That Man of Mine," and "Give Me a Heart to Sing."

Mulligan, Gerry

Gerry Mulligan: CBM 1248; Best known as a baritone saxophonist and big-band performer, Gerry Mulligan has begun to write and perform symphonic music. During this interview he turns to the piano to play "Ontet" and a duet of "Blue Angst."

Munsel, Patrice

The Story of Patrice Munsel: CBM 33; Story of a small-town girl who made it to the Metropolitan Opera.

Novak, Larry

Larry Novak: CBM 1255; A teacher, director, arranger, and composer from Chicago considers himself "one of the last generalists" and proves it by offering an impressive variety of piano jazz during this interview with Marian McPartland.

Peerce, Jan

Jan Peerce: CBM 823; Versatile performer on radio, TV, stage, and in opera. "You'll Never Walk Alone," "Blue Bird of Happiness," and Schubert songs are heard.

Pepper, Art

Musical Ideas of Art Pepper: CBM 18; The artist discusses how he puts a jazz piece together. Starting with a promising tune, he works out rhythmic and melodic outlines, then allows emotions to take over with individual solos.

Petrucciani, Michel

Michel Petrucciani: CBM 1256; "I'm never letting anything stop me from doing what I want to do," proclaims the twenty-one-year-old Petrucciani during this discussion and demonstration of his own composition style.

Powell, Maud

Child Prodigy of the Violin: CBM 115; Discusses the life of Maud Powell, the American violin virtuoso who was not considered seriously until she was invited to play for Queen Victoria.

Presley, Elvis

Portrait of Elvis Presley: CBM 814; Biography and music of the country singer turned rock star. Discusses the views and expectations of his fans.

Puente, Tito

Tito Puente, the King of Salsa: CBM 1026; Biography and music of the popular Latin musician.

Ritter, Tex

Tex Ritter: CBM 878; Biography of the Texas-born country-western singer and Hollywood cowboy. "High Noon," "Old Shortie," and "Lord, Can a Drunk Get into Heaven" are among the songs heard.

Roberts, Judy

Judy Roberts: CBM 1240; In a conversation with Marian McPartland that hits topics from sexism to Cole Porter, Judy Roberts shows that her independence and talent make her one of the most versatile singers and pianists of her age.

Robeson, Paul

Paul Robeson: CBM 957; Biography of Paul Robeson, the controversial singer who was the first performer to do concerts consisting solely of spirituals.

Rodgers, Jimmie

Portrait of Jimmie Rodgers: CBM 882; Biography of the country-western singer of the 1920s and 1930s. "Birmingham Jail" and "Lookin' for a New Mamma" are among the songs heard.

Rubinstein, Artur

He Loved Life from Miracle to Miracle: CBM 969; This great pianist, considered by many to be the world's reigning artist in Chopin performance, attracted a wider following and performed more concerts than any other concert artist of his day. Works by Brahms, DeFalla, and Beethoven are performed.

Rushen, Patrice

Patrice Rushen: CBM 1252; Her talents range from jazz and soul to rhythm and blues. The popular vocalist, songwriter, arranger, and master keyboardist Patrice Rushen discusses her career and demonstrates her many abilities, including her rendition of "Spirit Song."

Seals, Son

Son Seals: CBM 1230; The Chicago blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist traces the blues's move up the Mississippi into Memphis and Chicago, and explains how his own Arkansas roots influence his music.

Seeger, Pete

The Incompleat Folksinger: CBM 294; Folksinger Pete Seeger sings some of his favorite ballads and discusses his controversial life and his book.
Protests of Pete Seeger: CBM 57; The folksinger who was branded an outcast and banned from radio, television, and concert halls discusses the origins of his radicalism.

Segovia, Andres

Spotlight on Andres Segovia: CBM 289; A master guitarist discusses his involvement with music, his search for and ultimate discovery of the perfect guitar, and his most memorable concerts.

Shearing, George

George Shearing: CBM 1242; This legendary blind jazz figure describes his early start in music as a teenager and plays some of his favorite pieces.

Shuur, Diane

Diane Shuur: CBM 1236; This vocalist and pianist first performed at age nine to begin a career that has taken her to the White House and the Monterey Jazz Festival. Diane Shuur reflects on her life and does a solo of "I Can't Believe You Are in Love with Me."

Sills, Beverly

From Soap Opera to Grand Opera: CBM 973; Insight into Beverly Sills's life. Her role as Cleopatra in the opera Julius Caesar brought her universal popularity.

Smith, Leonard Bingley

Three Cheers for the Red, White, and Blue: CBM 1013-1014; Trumpeter and conductor Leonard Smith plays "Carnival of Venice" and reminisces about his career and other performers such as Sousa. The Detroit Concert Band is also heard.

Spanier, Muggsy

Musical Ideas of Muggsy Spanier: CBM 22; A legendary jazz trumpeter discusses his art and idols.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal: CBM 1191; An interview with the black musician who is called a "blues man," but who insists that his music is of many types of people.

Taylor, Cecil

Cecil Taylor: CBM 1241; A jazz artist with a classical background, Cecil Taylor has garnered such honors as a Guggenheim Fellowship and an honorary doctorate from the New England Conservatory of Music. Here he offers his tribute to Jimmy Lyons and joins Marian McPartland in a duet of "Get Out of Town."

Taylor, Koko

Koko Taylor: CBM 1231; Born in the great blues town of Memphis, Taylor talks about her singing and the importance of female blues singers like Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith.

Temple, Shirley

The Legend of Shirley Temple: CBM 817; Her career began when she was seven years old and spanned 1935-1938. "The Good Ship Lollipop" and "Goodnight My Love" are featured.

Thompson, Butch

Butch Thompson: CBM 1244; Best known for his popular appearance on public radio's "Prairie Home Companion," Butch Thompson performs opera as well as folk music and jazz. This cassette begins with "Ecuadorian Memories" and ends with a rousing version of "Rosette."

Tormé, Mel

Musical Ideas of Mel Tormé: CBM 150; Insights into jazz. Tormé, discusses his vocal style and the vocal trademarks of other singers.

von Trapp

Von Trapp Family Singers: CBM 967; A retelling of the Sound of Music story along with other real-life adventures of the von Trapp family of singers, who perform folk songs and other selections from concerts.
The Wonderful World of the Trapp Family: CBM 356; How Maria von Trapp and her singing family found a way to preserve and share the culture and beauty of their beloved Austria. Many musical examples.

Tureck, Rosalyn

First Lady of Bach: CBM 110-111; In this interview, Rosalyn Tureck describes her life as child prodigy, gifted student, conductor, concert artist, and music scholar.

Vallee, Rudy L.

The Legend of Rudy L. Vallee: CBM 821; Biography of the singing idol, band leader, and actor who hosted a radio show which had such entertaining personalities as Edgar Bergen and Sophie Tucker as guests. Includes "I'm Just a Vagabond Lover" among other songs.

Verrett, Shirley

Focus on Shirley Verrett: CBM 268-269; Shirley Verrett, a black opera singer, discusses her career and sings excerpts from Carmen, Il Trovatore, Samson and Delilah, Aida, and Orfeo.

Waters, Ethel

The Legend of Ethel Waters: CBM 818; Ethel Waters made her way from poverty to stardom in vaudeville. Among her best known songs, "Dinah" (1925) and "Am I Blue" (1929) are heard.

White, Josh

Josh White: CBM 1517

Williams, Hank

Down That Long Lost Highway: CBM 813; Biography and music of Hank Williams, who died at age twenty-nine. His career, during which he wrote "Your Cheatin' Heart" and "Your Cold, Cold Heart," lasted only three years. Several of his friends are interviewed.

Winter, Paul

Musical Ideas of Paul Winter: CBM 17; A jazz artist discusses his State Department tour of Latin America, his meeting with jazz musicians in cosmopolitan cities, and his experiences in the bush where natives had never heard of jazz.

Zeitlin, Denny

Denny Zeitlin: CBM 1246; A practicing psychiatrist as well as an accomplished pianist who has toured with the Paul Winter Consort, Denny Zeitlin discusses his music and plays several tunes from his first album.

Ziegfeld, Florenz

Father of the Follies: CBM 353; Biography of the great Florenz Ziegfeld, producer in the grand manner. Music selections include "I'm an Indian" (1921) sung by Fanny Brice and "When the Moon Shines on the Moonshine" by Bert Williams.

Songwriters

Alter, Louis

Music in My Heart: CBM 551; Story of Lou Alter, the composer of the melody "Manhattan Serenade" as well as four other instrumental pieces inspired by New York City: "Manhattan Moonlight," "Manhattan Masquerade," "Metropolitan Nocturne," and "Side Street in Gotham."

Arlen, Harold

The Man Who Gave the World a Rainbow: CBM 568-569; Interview with Harold Arlen, composer of the score to The Wizard of Oz and of songs written for stage and screen. Selections from his work include "Over the Rainbow," "Stormy Weather," and "Blues in the Night."

The Beatles

The Beatles: CBM 65; Interview with John Lennon and Paul McCartney, former Beatles, about wealth, fame, and world issues.
John and Yoko: CBM 578; John Lennon and Yoko Ono discuss fame, money, and drugs.

Benjamin, Bennie

The Man Who Set the World on Fire: CBM 567; Bennie Benjamin talks about his collaboration with lyricist George Weiss. Songs include "I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire" and "I Don't See Me in Your Eyes Anymore."

Berlin, Irving

The Bard of Tin Pan Alley: CBM 945; Biography of the extraordinary songwriter who recorded our history in song. "Always," "The Girl on the Magazine Cover," and "Alexander's Ragtime Band" are among the featured songs.
Tribute to Mr. America: CBM 1011-1012; Biography of the songwriter who gave us a wonderful legacy of the spirit of America with such songs as "God Bless America" and "Alexander's Ragtime Band."

Boggs, Jesse

Sessions with Jesse Boggs: CBM 734; Singer-songwriter Jesse Boggs pokes fun at American society by recreating a recording session. The musicians, intent upon making a hit album, reduce music to its most salable elements: music and satire.

Brewster, W. Herbert

Rev. Brewster, Gospel Music: CBM 776; Gospel music composer W. Herbert Brewster is interviewed on National Public Radio's Horizons series. His most famous song, "Move On Up a Little Higher," helped launch the career of Mahalia Jackson.

Brown, Oscar, Jr.

Oscar Brown, Jr.: CBM 727; The singer-songwriter and social activist talks about his life, his music, and his strong identification with Scott Joplin.

Caesar, Irving

If You Have to Learn, Don't Start: CBM 571-572; Reminiscences by Irving Caesar, leading lyricist for George Gershwin and lyricist of such songs as "Tea for Two," "Swannee," "Sometimes I'm Happy," and "Yankee Doodle Blues."

Cahn, Sammy

I've Heard That Song Before: CBM 559; Story of Sammy Cahn, prolific lyricist for composers Jule Styne, Jimmy Van Heusen, and Saul Kaplan.

Cannon, Hughie

Won't You Come Home, Hugh Cannon?: CBM 856; Biography of the ragtime pianist who wrote "Won't You Come Home, Bill Bailey?"

Cohan, George M. (George Michael)

Cohan Is a Grand Old Name: CBM 328; Story of the acting and song writing career of George M. Cohan, composer of "Give My Regards to Broadway," "The Yankee Doodle Boy," and "Over There," the World War I song for which Cohan received a congressional gold medal.

Coleman, Cy

If My Friends Could See Me Now: CBM 539; Cy Coleman, singer, pianist, conductor, and composer, surveys the contemporary music scene.

Comden, Betty

Betty Comden and Adolph Greene: CBM 6; Two writers of such Broadway hits as The Bells Are Ringing and On the Town discuss musical theater and perform some of their own works.

Coots, J. Fred

The Santa Claus of Tin Pan Alley: CBM 547; Story of musical comedy composer and popular songwriter J. Fred Coots, composer of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town."

Corea, Chick

Chick Corea: CBM 1250; The multi-talented musician plays selections from a variety of musical genres-from big band to jazz-rock fusion. In "Piano Jazz," recorded at Corea's own California studio, the prolific composer joins Marian McPartland for a dazzling mix of talk, improvisations, and musical portraits.

Coslow, Sam

Put Some Heart in a Song: CBM 526-527; Sam Coslow discusses his experience in writing motion picture songs.

Darion, Joe

A Lot of Strings to Play: CBM 561; Joe Darion, who wrote the lyrics to Man of La Mancha, expresses surprise at the popularity of his song "The Impossible Dream."

Davis, Benny

The Lyrical Life of Benny Davis: CBM 536; Benny Davis, lyricist of the World War I song "Goodbye Broadway, Hello France" and the popular song of the 1920s "Margie" tells of his long career as a songwriter.

Donaldson, Walter

When Walter Donaldson Ruled the Roost: CBM 608; Gerald Marks tells anecdotes about fellow composer Walter Donaldson, whose songs include "Carolina in the Morning," "Making Whoopee," "Back Home in Tennessee," and "My Mammy."

Drake, Ervin

A Lot of Meaning with the Music: CBM 570; Ervin Drake discusses the thread of spirituality that runs through many of his songs, which include "I Believe," "One God," and "It Was a Very Good Year."

Duning, George

For Whom Writing Music Is a Picnic: CBM 556; Interview with George Duning, one of Hollywood's most prolific writers of theme and background music.

The Early Days of Songwriting

CBM 528-529

Survey of popular music written before the founding of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. Features songs of Stephen Foster, songs popular during the Civil War, songs by Henry Clay Work, and songs of the Gay Nineties. Part 1 presents popular music of 1800-1860. Part 2 presents popular music of 1860-1880.

Edwards, Sherman

American History Was Never like This: CBM 519-520; Interview with Sherman Edwards, dropout history teacher who composed 1776, the Broadway musical based on the Revolutionary War and the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Eliscu, Edward

You've Given Us More than You Know: CBM 563; Interview with Eddie Eliscu, author, playwright, actor, and lyricist of such songs as "Great Day" and "The Carioca," the song made famous by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in their first film collaboration, Flying Down to Rio.

Fain, Sammy

He Gave Us a Thousand Beautiful Memories: CBM 908; Interview and music by lyricist Sammy Fain, who bridges the gap between honky-tonk and modern ballads. "Secret Love" and "Love Is a Many Splendored Thing" won him two Academy Awards.

Fulson, Lowell

Lowell Fulson: CBM 1233; The man who wrote B.B. King's first hit, "Three O'Clock Blues," describes the creation and evolution of the mellow California blues sound.

Gilbert, L. Wolfe (Louis Wolfe)

"G" Is for the Great Songs You Gave Us: CBM 606; Interview with Mrs. Gilbert, whose late husband, L. W. Gilbert, wrote "Waitin' for the Robert E. Lee," "My Mother's Eyes," "Down Yonder," and "Ramona."

Green, Bud

Evergreens from Bud: CBM 550; Reminiscences by Bud Green, lyricist of the hit "Sentimental Journey" along with discussion about Sibelius's Finlandia and Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever," two pieces sealed in a time capsule at the New York World's Fair of 1939.

Grusin, Dave

Dave Grusin: CBM 1251; Known primarily as the composer of the musical scores for "Tootsie" and "On Golden Pond," Dave Grusin is also a successful producer and performer. During this interview he plays his own "Theme from St. Elsewhere," and Marian McPartland joins in for a melodic duet of "I Remember April."

Guthrie, Woody

The Folk Singer: CBM 854; Detailed biography of Woody Guthrie, born in rural Oklahoma in 1912. He wrote one thousand songs which express the essence of grass roots America.
Legend of a Balladeer: CBM 912; Biography of Woody Guthrie who traveled the land and wrote songs about American life. "This Land Is Your Land" and "Roll on, Columbia" are among the musical selections.
Woody Guthrie Remembered: CBM 44, CBM 46; Interviews with friends of Woody Guthrie. Includes songs by Cisco Houston, Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie himself, and some children's songs.

Handy, W.C. (William Christopher)

The Father of the Blues: CBM 343; The late W.C. Handy sings and tells about writing such songs as "Memphis Blues," "St. Louis Blues," and "Beale Street Blues."

Harbach, Bill

Bill Harbach: CBM 926; Interview with Otto Harbach's son, who reminisces about his father's contribution to musical comedy. "Cuddle Up a Little Closer" and "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" are two of his well-known songs.

Harburg, E.Y. (Edgar Yipsel)

You're a Builder Upper: CBM 553; E.Y. Harburg, lyricist of Finian's Rainbow and The Wizard of Oz, relates America's history as a "melting pot" to the songwriting scene.

Herbert, Victor

The Legend of Victor Herbert: CBM 612; Focus on Victor Herbert, one of the founders of ASCAP, covering his varied career as composer of the operetta Babes in Toyland, bandmaster of New York's Twenty-Second Regiment Band, and conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.
Victor Herbert: CBM 585; Biography. Herbert's failure at composing serious pieces for the opera and violoncello resulted in the operetta Naughty Marietta, a forerunner of musical comedy. Includes selections from Victor Herbert's musical comedies.

Herman, Jerry

The American Sampler: CBM 910; Interview with songwriter-composer Jerry Herman, interspersed with his music. Among his credits are the Broadway shows Hello Dolly and Mame.
The Man Who Carried It Off: CBM 525; Jerry Herman, composer and lyricist of Broadway shows Hello Dolly and Mame, discusses future plans for writing music.

Johnson, James P. (James Price)

James P. Johnson: CBM 858; The composer of "Charleston" and "If I Could Be with You" ranked along with Scott Joplin and Jelly Roll Morton as the "father" of the eastern Harlem stride style.

Jones, Tom

A Lot More than Fantastic: CBM 540; Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt, the team that produced The Fantasticks, discuss past shows and present work in musical theater.

Kahn, Gus

We're Still Singing "I'll See You in My Dreams": CBM 575-576; Songs written by lyricist Gus Kahn and his many collaborators, with discussion of Kahn's film biography.

Kalmar, Bert

A Couple of Crazy Guys/Three Little Words, Thirteen Little Letters: CBM 623; Story of Bert Kalmar and Harry Ruby, successful songwriters who remained vaudeville comedians at heart.

Kern, Jerome

Jerome Kern, Man of Melody: CBM 156; Friends discuss Jerome Kern's legendary career.
Master of the Medium, the Man Who Found the Silver Lining: CBM 613/ CBM 618; Discusses Jerome Kern's career as writer of show tunes. Includes performances of "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" from Roberta and "Make Believe" and "Ol' Man River" from Showboat.

Lane, Burton

No Sad Songs for Me: CBM 554; Burton Lane discusses his collaboration with E.Y. Harburg in writing the Broadway musical Finian's Rainbow and its most famous song "How Are Things in Glocca Morra?"

Leigh, Carolyn

Young at Heart: CBM 562; Lyricist Carolyn Leigh discusses the influences on her writing.

Lerner, Sammy

Makin' Up a Song as I Go Along: CBM 604/605; Sammy Lerner, lyricist for Hoagy Carmichael and Jay Gorney, tells of writing the song "Popeye the Sailor Man."

Livingston, Jay

Give It All You've Got: CBM 625-626; Anecdotes from Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the team that wrote theme songs for the television series Bonanza and Mr. Ed, as well as award-winning songs like "Que Sera, Sera," "Mona Lisa," and "To Each His Own."

Loesser, Frank

A Man and His Music: CBM 573/574; An interview with the widow of Frank Loesser, a songwriter whose World War II songs include "Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition."

Marks, Gerald

They Don't Write 'em like That Anymore: CBM 342; Gerald Marks, composer of the popular song "All of Me," reminisces about the songs written by Irving Berlin, Victor Herbert, and others.

Marks, Johnny

Johnny Marks and His Celebrated Reindeer: CBM 564; Johnny Marks, composer of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," talks about the varied sources of inspiration for his songs.

McHugh, Jimmy

Happy Songs from a Happy Man: CBM 621; Life and music of Jimmy McHugh, composer of such cheerful songs as "The Sunny Side of the Street" and "It's a Most Unusual Day."

Mercer, Johnny

The Man Who Launched 1,000 Hits: CBM 548; Life and songs of Johnny Mercer, who wrote the lyrics of "Moon River," "Days of Wine and Roses," and "Blues in the Night."

Mizzy, Vic

The Whole World Is Singing My Song: CBM 616; Songwriter Vic Mizzy tells anecdotes about his contemporaries and collaborators and gives opinions about current popular music.

Nyro, Laura

The Music of Laura Nyro: CBM 60; Laura Nyro is interviewed by John Daly. Her diverse musical expressions are analyzed by Michael Thomas, Richard Goldstein, and Patrick O'Conner.

Oakland, Ben

You're Not So Easy to Forget: CBM 564; Story of the long career of Ben Oakland, who began playing classical music at an early age and went on to success as a vaudeville entertainer and as a songwriter for the Ziegfeld Follies and for Broadway musicals.

Olman, Abe

The Ship That Came In: CBM 565; Abe Olman reminisces about his career as a music publisher and as a songwriter whose hits include "I'm Waiting for Ships That Never Come In" and "Down among the Sheltering Palms."

Parish, Mitchell

The Sentimental Gentleman: CBM 549; Interview with Mitchell Parish, a lyricist who teamed with composers Duke Ellington, Hoagy Carmichael, and Sammy Fain, and whose collaboration with Carmichael produced the hit "Stardust."

Porter, Cole

Focus on Cole Porter: CBM 285; Comprehensive collection of Cole Porter songs, with commentary tracing his career from 1937.
The Master of "From Major to Minor": CBM 624; Relates Cole Porter's affluent background to the "plutocratic stylishness" of his songs. Plays songs from Porter's years on Broadway, including "Night and Day," "Anything Goes," and "I Get a Kick out of You."

Raksin, David

So You Want to Write for the Movies: CBM 607; David Raksin, composer and conductor, discusses the process of writing music for films. Excerpts from Forever Amber.

Ramirez, Ram

Ram Ramirez: CBM 1253; He wrote Billie Holiday's hit song "Lover Man" and enjoys continued popularity on the New York jazz scene. Roger "Ram" Ramirez converses with Marian McPartland and teams up with her for a duet of "Undecided."

Rodgers, Richard

The Dynamics of Collaboration: CBM 201; Musical-comedy composer Richard Rodgers reminisces about the forty- three years he spent in partnerships with lyricists Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein.
The Most Unforgettable Composer I Never Met: CBM 515-518; Dorothy Rodgers, wife of composer Richard Rodgers, discusses her husband's career in musical theater and his collaborations with lyricists Larry Hart and Oscar Hammerstein II. Includes well-known songs from Oklahoma!, The Sound of Music, and South Pacific, as well as less familiar songs and tells the story of the music publishing scene on Tin Pan Alley at the turn of the century.
Oklahoma! and Beyond: CBM 233; Richard Rodgers, composer of the theatrical landmark Oklahoma!, reminisces about his collaboration with lyricist Oscar Hammerstein.

Romberg, Sigmund

The Last of the Giants: CBM 609; Story of Sigmund Romberg, a composer who combined Viennese style with American idioms in such operettas as Blossom Time, The Student Prince, and My Romance.
Focus on Sigmund Romberg: CBM 468; Oscar Hammerstein talks about Romberg's life, plays, and greatest songs.

Rome, Harold

Seven Shows to Rome: CBM 557; Anecdotes told by Harold Rome, composer of such Broadway musicals as Pins and Needles, Call Me Mister, and Wish You Were Here.

Ruby, Harry

A Couple of Crazy Guys/Three Little Words, Thirteen Little Letters: CBM 623; Story of Bert Kalmar and Harry Ruby, successful songwriters who remained vaudeville comedians at heart.

Schwartz, Arthur

Something to Remember Him By: CBM 555; Life and music of Arthur Schwartz, who gave up his law practice to write for musical theater. Songs include "Dancing in the Dark" and "You and the Night and the Music."

Spina, Harold

Sing Me an Old-Fashioned Song: CBM 602/603; Composer and conductor Harold Spina reminisces with Mike Whorf about his long songwriting career and about his music for "Annie Doesn't Live Here Anymore," "It's So Nice to Have a Man around the House," and other songs for the movies.

Strouse, Charles

By Strouse: CBM 560; Strouse, who composed the score of Bye, Bye Birdie, discusses the importance of a composer's involvement in arranging and orchestrating melodies.

Styne, Jule

There Goes That Song Again: CBM 558; Songs by Jule Styne, arranger and composer who collaborated with lyricist Sammy Cahn to write such hits as "I've Heard That Song Before" and "Let It Snow, Let It Snow."

Tilzer, Harry von

Please Sing Me One More Chorus: CBM 535; Life of prolific composer and music publisher Harry von Tilzer, writer of "Wait till the Sun Shines, Nellie" and "I Want a Girl Just like the Girl That Married Dear Old Dad."

Tobias, Charles

As the Years Go By: CBM 538; Interview with Edna Tobias, who tells of her late husband Charles's varied career as a vaudeville entertainer and as a songwriter for musicals and motion pictures.

Van Heusen, Jimmy

Mister Music: CBM 620/622; Career of Jimmy Van Heusen, whose songs, written with lyricist Johnny Burke, include "Imagination," "Swinging on a Star," and "Sunday, Monday, or Always."

Youmans, Vincent

Through the Years: CBM 610; Highlights of Vincent Youman's career writing scores for such musicals as Great Day and No, No, Nanette.

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Posted on 2004-10-20