Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

The title of this book is misleading: in fact, it is "a" history of certain ethnic and regional Texas music that achieved commercial popularity in Texas and, in some cases, across the US. Hartman (founding director, Center for Texas Music History, Texas State Univ., San Marcos) relies mainly on others' research, but he also contributes original, interview-based research of his own. The first chapter summarizes Native American music, and subsequent chapters take up Mexican American music, African American music (chiefly blues), Anglo American music (chiefly country), Texas rock 'n' roll, and ethnic German, Jewish, Czech, Polish, and French (Cajun and Creole) music. Throughout Hartman pays careful attention to genres and styles. He also classifies countless performers, provides career biographies of the most successful, and summarizes historical and cultural developments affecting the music he examines. But though the author pays homage to Texas singer-songwriters and "alternative" commercial musicians, the exquisite, noncommercial folk music recorded by folklorists goes almost unnoticed. Also overlooked: school music, community choruses, theater, bands, classical music, and the Texas fiddling tradition. Gospel music is neglected, jazz gets short shrift. Still, this well-organized book provides a helpful overview of the music it does cover. Summing Up: Recommended. With reservations. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals. J. T. Titon Brown University From: Syndetics Solutions, Inc. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.