Struggling to Define a Nation

Discover the intricate tapestry of American musical culture in "Struggling to Define a Nation" by Charles Hiroshi Garrett. Published by the University of California Press in 2008, this 312-page book explores the diverse musical genres that shaped the United States, from art music and jazz to popular songs, ragtime, and Hawaiian music. Garrett delves into the lives and contributions of iconic musicians such as Charles Ives, Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong, and Irving Berlin, presenting music as a crucial forum for cultural discussions. This insightful analysis not only illuminates the rich history of 20th-century music in the U.S. but also addresses the ongoing challenges of defining national identity through sound. Ideal for music enthusiasts and scholars alike, this book offers a compelling narrative that connects melodies with the broader themes of nationalism and cultural expression.