This book is the first in-depth analysis of George Gershwin's entire compositional oeuvre including his concert music. Written in a fluid conversational style and illustrated with numerous musical examples some of which have never before been published it weaves biographical material with musical analysis and presents a chronological study of Gershwin's career. George Gershwin was an American original, but as Gilbert points out, "original" is often equated with "primitive" and deemed not worthy of serious consideration. With this book, Gershwin's music finally gets the attention it deserves. While previous books have included some analysis?Alec Wilder's American Popular Song (Oxford Univ. Pr., 1972) and more recently Deena Rosenberg's Fascinating Rhythm (LJ 10/15/91)?this is the first title to focus exclusively on Gershwin's music, with in-depth musical analysis in the Schenkerian method. Gilbert, coauthor of the prominent text Introduction to Schenkerian Analysis (Norton, 1982), is well suited to the task. He notes the influence of the composer's studies with Joseph Schillinger, as well as some parallels with the music of Stravinsky and other "serious" composers of the day. Gilbert's book is not for the casual reader, since it requires an understanding of music theory and notation. Recommended for all serious music collections.?Michael Colby, Univ. of California Lib., Davis Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. Weaving biographical material with musical analysis, Steven Gilbert presents a chronological study of the highlights of Gershwin's career. He discusses the well-known Rhapsody in Blue, Concerto in F, An American in Paris, and Porgy and Bess, as well as such popular songs as "Swanee", "'S Wonderful", "I Got Rhythm", "Love Walked In", and "Love Is Here to Stay". But he also examines relatively neglected works that are no less deserving, such as Second Rhapsody, Cuban Overture, and Pardon My English, the last of which, says Gilbert, was a failure on Broadway but was one of George and Ira Gershwin's finest collaborations. Written in a fluid, conversational style and illustrated with numerous musical examples, some of which have never before been published, this book will be enjoyed by general readers and appreciated by professional musicians and musical scholars alike. Steven E. Gilbert is professor of music at California State University, Fresno.