About – americansongbookassociation.org

Our Mission

The ASA seeks to create transformational experiences for people of all ages by engaging in the music of the Great American Songbook.

Our Vision

The ASA envisions a world where music is a common language of unity, empowerment, and opportunity.

Our Values

We believe in the power of music. By creating accessibility to music through the Great American Songbook, we can be a catalyst for positive change, developmental growth, and a better sense of self. Regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, geographical location, or any other cultural dimension, we believe that the language of music, in song and lyrics, can break down barriers and build relationships.

What is the Great American Songbook?

The Great American Songbook represents popular music of the 20th and 21st centuries including jazz, musical theater and classic standards that have remained widely known and reimagined by a wide range of artists since their original recordings. The notional idea of the Songbook originated in the 1930s and ’40s before American musical taste began to rapidly expand to include other forms of music including country, bluegrass, and rock, particularly in the ’50s. Although many associate the Great American Songbook with music from the early 20th century, the ASA believes the Songbook is still being written.

What We Do

We leverage the rich tradition of the Great American Songbook (Jazz, Musical Theater, Standards) as an educational foundation to create programming in three key areas:

Publication of Cabaret Scenes Magazine

Our bi-monthly publication raises awareness of the Great American Songbook and engages readers through articles, reviews, interviews, and promotion of cabaret events

Educational Programs in New York City Public Schools and the Tri-State Area

Our school programs are a catalyst for students in building confidence, expanding their vocabulary, and discovering their own unique voice. Though some interested participants will receive low or no cost advanced musical instruction, moving on to attend performing arts high schools, our focus is not on producing professional musicians. We seek to develop curiosity about educational possibilities and options, through exposure to classic American music. We create better public speakers, independent thinkers and, most important, aspirants for a successful future.

Engagement Programs for Seniors

Our programs for seniors stimulate their minds, create a sense of belonging, and promote better overall well-being