Ep 12. America's Musical Gift

In season 1 episode 12 of Great Music of the 20th Century, viewers can expect to discover America's Musical Gift. Through exploring the work of prominent American composers, the episode delves into the rich and diverse history of music in the United States. From George Gershwin's timeless jazz standards to Leonard Bernstein's iconic West Side Story, the episode showcases the ways in which American music has made an impact on the world scene.

Kicking off with a tribute to the "King of Ragtime" Scott Joplin, the episode takes audiences through the various styles and genres that have come to define American music. Joplin's ragtime rhythm served as the foundation for jazz, a musical form that took the world by storm in the early 20th century. Viewers will get to hear some iconic pieces, like Duke Ellington's "Take the A Train," which epitomize the uniquely American sound of jazz.

From the blues to rock and roll and beyond, the episode provides an overview of all the major movements that shaped American music culture in the 20th century. Artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard brought rock and roll to its heyday, upending music norms and breaking down racial barriers. The show offers an in-depth look at how rock evolved from its early days to become a dominant force in popular music.

The episode also takes time to explore the contributions of female composers, who have often been overlooked in discussions of American music history. Viewers will get to hear the music of trailblazing women like Florence Price, whose Symphony No. 1 was the first work by a black woman to be performed by a major symphony orchestra, and Ruth Crawford Seeger, who composed avant-garde pieces that challenged traditional musical norms.

As the episode progresses, viewers will also see how the political and social movements of the 20th century influenced American music, and how music in turn helped to shape cultural conversations. For instance, the work of Bob Dylan, whose work was heavily influenced by the civil rights and anti-war movements, is highlighted as an example of how music can be a powerful tool for social commentary.

In addition to showcasing individual pieces of music, the episode also situates them within their historical and cultural contexts. Viewers will learn about the technological advancements and societal changes that allowed for the creation of new genres and styles of music. Additionally, the show examines the ways in which American music has been influenced by the world, with segments on Latin music and the global success of Motown.

As the episode winds down, viewers will be left with a deep appreciation for the ways in which American music has shaped and been shaped by the world around it. From the syncopated rhythms of ragtime to the poetic lyrics of folk, the episode is a celebration of the diverse and exciting musical landscape that has defined the last century. With stunning performances and insightful commentary, America's Musical Gift is a must-watch for music lovers and history buffs alike.

Overall, Great Music of the 20th Century season 1 episode 12 offers an engaging and informative tour through the rich tapestry of American music. With its wide-ranging scope and deep respect for the artists that have created the music we love, the episode is sure to delight anyone who has ever been moved by a great piece of music.