American Composers on American Music

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June 18, 2026

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"American Composers on American Music" is a collection of essays compiled by Henry Cowell, a significant figure in 20th-century American music known for his innovative approaches, such as "tone clusters". The book offers insights into the perspectives of various American composers on their craft and the evolving musical landscape of the United States. It reflects a period of significant experimentation and development in American musical composition, with composers exploring new sounds and forms. The collection provides a valuable historical document for understanding the artistic philosophies and creative processes of American musicians during that era.1

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Henry Cowell
He also edited American Composers on American Music (1933) and with his wife, Sidney Cowell, wrote Charles Ives and His Music (1955). A number of well-known American composers, including John Cage, Lou Harrison, and George Gershwin, studied with and were influenced by Cowell.
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He also edited American Composers on American Music (1933) and with his wife, Sidney Cowell, wrote Charles Ives and His Music (1955). A number of well-known American composers, including John Cage, Lou Harrison, and George Gershwin, studied with and were influenced by Cowell.
Read More