The development of American musical theater in the early 20th century was shaped by the contributions of composers and lyricists working across vaudeville, revues, and the emerging form of the book musical. While revues were collections of songs, dances, and skits loosely strung together, book musicals represented a major step forward by telling a cohesive story in which songs were woven into the fabric of the plot.

Although many early book musicals did not endure on the stage, their songs achieved lasting success. Composers like Cole Porter, George and Ira Gershwin, and Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart created songs of such melodic and lyrical brilliance that they took on a life of their own. These songs, now referred to as standards, outlived the musicals for which they were originally written and have become cornerstones of the Great American Songbook.

Thanks to performers like Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby, and many others, these songs continue to be recorded, performed, and reinterpreted across generations and genres. Whether heard in a jazz club, concert hall, Broadway revival, or on a classic film soundtrack, the music of this era remains deeply embedded in the cultural identity of American music

Chapter 8: Conclusion

Andrew Ginzel Music