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The Evolution of American Musical Theater: From Early 20th Century to Modern Masterpieces

Explore the rich history of American Musical Theater, which began in the early 20th century with influences from operetta, vaudeville, and reviews. This genre evolved through significant works like "Showboat" (1927), "Oklahoma!" (1943), and "West Side Story" (1957), weaving narratives that reflect American life. Post-WW2, international influences shaped musicals like "South Pacific" and "My Fair Lady." The 1970s brought more complex compositions with artists like Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Analyzing Bernstein's "Tonight," we assess how music conveys contrasting emotions, illustrating the depth and dynamism of this vibrant art form.

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The Evolution of American Musical Theater: From Early 20th Century to Modern Masterpieces

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  1. Twentieth CenturyCh 20 American Musical Theater

  2. American Musical Theater • Origins--early 20th C • Operetta (music, dialogue, dance, plot, usually humorous) • Vaudeville (variety show w/ no plot or unifying idea or theme) • Review (variety show w/ unifying idea or theme)

  3. Like opera Music: Instrumental vocal solos ensembles Visual: sets costumes acting lighting Unlike opera many are comedies musically simpler more spoken dialogue American Musical Theater

  4. American Musical Theater • pre-WW2—American life, subjects, set in America • Showboat, 1927 • Girl Crazy, 1930 • Oklahoma, 1943

  5. American Musical Theater • post-WW2—international influences • South Pacific, 1949 • Brigadoon, 1949 • The King and I, 1951 • My Fair Lady, 1956 • The Sound of Music, 1959 • Fiddler on the Roof, 1964 • Evita, 1978

  6. American Musical Theater • post-1970s musicals more like opera • more complex music • more sung dialogue • Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Sondheim • Les Miz • A Little Night Music • Phantom of the Opera • Into the Woods

  7. Leonard Bernstein • Classically trained • Virtuoso orchestral conductor • Composer/songwriter • TV personality • NY Phil Young People’s Concerts • Became household name!

  8. Listening Summary Bernstein Tonight from West Side Story ensemble I= West Side Story = Romeo & Juliet ensemble simultaneously presents: opposing messages & emotions highly contrasting music Connect Kamien

  9. How does Bernstein project ugliness of rumble? How does Bernstein project beauty of love? Bernstein, Tonight vocal tone color style rhythm melody characteristics orchestral accompaniment Wh/ is more active or energetic? Connect Kamien

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