Author Description

"This book contains a diverse array of contemporary vocal music available in the 20th century. It provides specific pieces for different voices, abilities, and occasions. Choices range from substantial song cycles to shorter pieces suitable for encores, examinations, or auditions. Almost all works are for voice and piano, but there are some for solo voice. This volume also contains a rich variety of musical styles, which is reflected here along with some revised and updated articles on works featured in the previous edition, in order to keep them in circulation. Furthermore, this volume includes the broadest possible selection of works which are confined to settings of the English language. However, two works in Latin as well as one piece in fake 'Russian' are the only exceptions. In addition, there are certain songs culled from some diploma syllabus many years ago, which seem to have progressed unchallenged through successive generations despite a wealth of viable alternatives. Teachers can thus be inclined to steer students in the direction of pieces they are already familiar with in this book"--