So, what is I Hear America Singing all about? Well, let’s dive in and find out, shall we?! This site is a companion to one of the Great Performance series on PBS. It is an interesting look into the American concert song.
There are two ways to get around the site: The Overview and the Timeline. Both will allow you access to all the site’s content.
The Overview is done in a paragraph style with links in the text. It also has video clips interspersed throughout, as well as, audio bits you can listen to.
The Timeline – Of the two, this was my preferred method of browsing, because it’s a little more interactive. The page is divided into two frames. The left frame is like a highlight strip with little facts from 1774 to 1992. The right frame holds the timeline. At the bottom of the page, take notice of the buttons with years on them. These will navigate you further along the timeline.
You can also check out the Profiles. The Profiles section lets you check out the composers, poets/writers and artists/movements/ideas featured on the site. Or, you can head directly to the Songbook to listen to the music that shaped the concert song. The music is in a .wav format, as well as, REAL audio.
Growing up, I was always part of a choir, so this site really touched a subject near and dear to my heart. I’m happy I could share the history of concert song in America with you. Enjoy!
~ Amanda