Alexander's Ragtime Band and Other Favorite Song Hits, 1901-1911 : Book Review

"Alexander's Ragtime Band and Other Favorite Song Hits: 1901-1911" by David A. Jasen is a comprehensive and meticulously researched book that delves into the popular music of the early 20th century. With a focus on the period between 1901 and 1911, Jasen explores the rise and impact of ragtime music, particularly through the lens of Irving Berlin's iconic song, "Alexander's Ragtime Band."

Jasen's extensive research is evident throughout the book, as he provides valuable insights into the evolution and cultural significance of ragtime. He examines not only the compositions themselves but also the social and historical context in which they were created. This approach allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the music and its connection to the time period.

One of the book's strengths is the inclusion of sheet music and lyrics for each featured song. This allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the music and experience it as it was originally intended. Additionally, Jasen provides informative annotations for each composition, offering further context and analysis. This attention to detail enhances the reading experience and makes the book a valuable resource for both scholars and casual readers.

Another highlight of the book is the way Jasen weaves together the stories of various composers and performers. By highlighting the contributions of lesser-known figures and providing biographical information, he brings these characters to life and adds depth to the narrative. This serves as a testament to the diversity and richness of ragtime music during this transformative era.

Overall, "Alexander's Ragtime Band and Other Favorite Song Hits: 1901-1911" is a meticulously researched book that offers a fascinating exploration of the popular music of the early 20th century. Through its in-depth analysis, inclusion of sheet music, and engaging narratives, David A. Jasen provides a valuable resource that captures the essence and importance of ragtime during this transformative era of music history.

What are readers saying?

"Alexander's Ragtime Band and Other Favorite Song Hits 1901-1911" by David A. Jasen has received a mix of reviews from readers.

Many readers appreciate the author's meticulous research and compilation of popular songs from the early 20th century. They find the book to be a valuable resource for those interested in the history of music and enjoy learning about the cultural significance of these songs. The detailed descriptions and background information provided by the author are praised for enhancing the reading experience and allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the era.

However, some readers feel that the book could have had a better organization. They find the lack of an index or table of contents makes it difficult to navigate and locate specific songs or information. Some readers also feel that the book focuses too heavily on the technical aspects of the music, which may only appeal to a niche audience.

The inclusion of sheet music in the book is appreciated by many readers, who find it helpful for playing and performing these nostalgic tunes. They enjoy being able to recreate the sounds of the past and feel that the sheet music adds an interactive element to the book.

On the other hand, some readers feel that the sheet music is not user-friendly and could have been better formatted. They find the small font and cramped layout to be a hindrance when trying to read and play the music.

AlexanderRagtimeBand FavoriteSongHits 1901to1911