CARTOON MUSIC BOOK, THE

Often dismissed as mere childhood entertainment, cartoon music is an art form that makes ingenious use of jazz, and that has introduced generations to the works of Rossini, Liszt, and Wagner. Lately, the qualities that make cartoon music unique have come into vogue: frenetic, repeating melodic themes that punctuate the drama and humor on-screen. Editors Goldmark (music, U. of Alabama) and Taylor have brought together an illuminating and entertaining compilation of 30- plus essays and interviews - some previously published - exploring the history of cartoon music and the experiences of those involved in its creation. A discography and a bibliography round out the book.