Michael Feinstein's American Songbook

Pianist-singer Michael Feinstein leads a tour through American musical history, from the jazz days of the 1920s through the music of World War II and on into the 1950s and '60s, with the advent of rock 'n' roll. In his quest to celebrate some of America's finest composers, he touches on the works of George and Ira Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer. The passionate preservationist shares personal stories of his efforts to save America's musical heritage, as well as anecdotes about composers and lyricists he's worked with over the years.

Storyline

First Aired
Last Aired

2013-04-12
Creator
Genre

Documentary
Seasons

3
Episodes

7
Status

Returning Series
Language
Network

PBS

Keywords:

musical history

Stream and watch Michael Feinstein's American Songbook

Season 1

Season 2

Season 3

1. Putting On the Tail Fins (1950s–1960s)

Episode 1 focuses on the 1950s and 1960s, when the Great American Songbook competed with new forms lik...More

Episode 1 focuses on the 1950s and 1960s, when the Great American Songbook competed with new forms like rock ‘n’ roll, and rhythm & blues. As Feinstein crisscrosses the country performing with big bands, symphony orchestras and jazz combos, viewers learn how iconic singers like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Rosemary Clooney kept the Songbook alive by reinventing pop standards of the 1930s and 1940s.Less

2. Best Band in the Land (1940s)

Episode 2 examines how popular songs provided emotional solace and patriotic inspiration during World ...More

Episode 2 examines how popular songs provided emotional solace and patriotic inspiration during World War II. While preparing an original patriotic song, Michael weaves in the history of 1940s big bands, USO shows, V-disks, war bond rallies, and the powerful role popular music played in boosting morale.Less

3. A New Step Every Day (1920s–1930s)

Episode 3 explores the fast and furious 1920s and 1930s, when jazz was hot, credit was loose, and ille...More

Episode 3 explores the fast and furious 1920s and 1930s, when jazz was hot, credit was loose, and illegal booze flowed freely in underground speakeasies. Between performances, Feinstein illustrates the impact of talking pictures, the dawn of radio, and the fledgling recording industry. Additionally, it introduces viewers to other collectors and musicians who keep the spirit of the Jazz Age alive today.Less