Michael Feinstein's American Songbook

Michael Feinstein's American Songbook is a critically acclaimed PBS television series first aired in 2010. Eponymously named after the Grammy-nominated performer and music specialist, Michael Feinstein, the show showcases the beautiful and iconic world of American music standards and serves as a visual biography of ally of this music universe. It provides a comprehensive study of the American music style, with its pluralist influences and melodic heart that has continued to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.

The series structure is adventurous and evocative, incorporating a mix of musical performances, interviews, and documentary-style storytelling. The program is both didactic and entertaining, educating viewers about the vibrant roots of the American songbook while simultaneously offering Feinstein's renditions of timeless classics. Each episode is a unique mishmash of old and new footages, archival materials, live performances, and personal narratives that seamlessly trace the history of the American music industry.

Feinstein brings to the screen his encyclopedic knowledge about the American popular song as well as the multitude of composers and interpreters who have enriched this musical heritage over the decades. His raw passion for sharing this lore and his extensive experience as an archivist and curator brings an authentic touch to the series, making it a reservoir of rich historical and anecdotal information. The enthusiasm is palpable as audiences watch Feinstein delve deep into libraries, flea markets, estate sales, and more in the search of the gems of the American songbook.

Each episode of the series focuses on a different era or theme relevant to the American music tradition and extracts the essence of the chosen topic. From the explosion of jazz and blues during the troubling times surrounding the great depression to the glitzy age of Broadway and Hollywood musicals, the show traverses through a fascinating journey of all facets of the American music scene. Throughout this journey, audiences are introduced to the famous personalities, the compelling stories behind legendary songs, and get a feel for the cultural, social, and political climates of the different periods that contributed in shaping the music.

Guest appearances by renowned celebrities from the music industry further enhance the show's appeal. They share their priceless firsthand experiences and insights, adding depth to Feinstein's narrative and the chosen themes of the episodes. The show also spotlights the evolution of listening and recording technologies over time and highlights how they impacted the music industry.

While the program is rich in dense historical facts, it’s Feinstein’s engaging storytelling style that brings this information to life and keeps viewers entertained. His virtuosic performances of American classics, whether on stage or in a more intimate setting, paired with his personal anecdotes, are both informative and delightful. It offers glimpses into the power and permanence of these songs and underscores the unparalleled role music plays in shaping our collective memories.

The production value of the show is also commendable. The blend of original sequences with vintage clips and photographs creates a visually compelling experience. These elements, paired with high-quality sound editing, create a multi-sensory journey through the cultural history of America providing a unique perspective to viewers.

In essence, Michael Feinstein's American Songbook goes far beyond being just a music series. It serves as a link between the past and the present, showcasing the timelessness of the American songbook. Moreover, it enables viewers to appreciate the incredible diligence that musicians of the past and present have made to this rich legacy, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the American music tradition. This series is, truly, a must-watch for music lovers, history buffs, as well as the casual viewer seeking an entertaining and enlightening viewing experience.