The elusive cabaret song: The marriage of classical and popular styles in the Cabaret Songs of William Bolcom and Arnold Weinstein

Abstract

The Cabaret Songs of William Bolcom and Arnold Weinstein merge characteristics of European cabaret song and art song with characteristics of American popular song to create a modern American form of cabaret song which generates a complete theatrical characterization in each piece. Aspects of European cabaret song evident in these songs include satire, parody, and directness and intimacy of presentation. Independence of the piano, partnership of the piano and voice, and effective word setting and word painting are qualities identified with European art song which appear in these Cabaret Songs. Elements of American popular song woven into these works include jazz figurations, quasi-improvisatory sections, musical theater style, and the presence of complete theater "scenes" in each piece. These songs are derived from a multiplicity of styles which have become part of the American vernacular and run the gamut from Negro spiritual to pachanga. These Cabaret Songs provide the classically trained singer with the opportunity to experience and perform in a popular idiom. William Bolcom's writing demonstrates his fluid integration of diverse musical styles which reflect the richness of the mosaic which is the United States of America.