The NPR Curious Listener's Guide to Popular Standards

February 1, 2002
With the imprimatur of National Public Radio, these entries constitute an auspicious beginning to a new series that will total four titles (those on jazz and classical music will be released in fall 2002). Berger (Verdi with a Vengeance, Wagner Without Fear) and ragtime pianist Morath obviously have great affection for and knowledge of their subjects. Directed to lay readers, their witty and informative handbooks include introductory frameworks; historical development and contexts; short biographical treatment of major figures such as composers, performers, and conductors; a "deconstruction" section interpreting the genre; a glossary; details on the major songs or operas; discographies (30 suggested CDs in Opera and 75 in Popular Standards); and selected resources for further study, including web sites. The opinionated remarks (Morath writes that Louis Armstrong is "the twentieth century's dominant figure in American music") and recording choices are sure to provoke comments among aficionados. Facts are generally reliable, explanations are assured, and the sidebars are especially interesting. The Morath volume nicely complements William Zinsser's recent Easy To Remember: The Great American Songwriters and Their Songs (LJ 2/1/01), while Berger's provides a contrast to opinions offered in books like Michael Walsh's Who's Afraid of Opera? (S. & S., 1994). With their affordability and upbeat tone, both guides are enthusiastically recommended for public libraries. (Indexes not seen.) Barry Zaslow, Miami Univ. Libs., Oxford, OH

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