Contemporary musical culture as reflected in the fictional works of William Allen White.

Abstract

William Allen White was an internationally respected editor who is probably best remembered for his years as editor of the Emporia Gazette. He was also a fine author and had a great interest in music. This thesis examines and compares the musical references in biographies about White, the fictional works of White, and White's autobiography revealing not only the role of music in White's own life, but the important role music played in his culture. Each section of this thesis examines the role of a particular type of music in White's own life and in the lives of his fictional characters. A biographical sketch of White and a summary of his fictional works are included in Chapter one. Chapter two examines the role of vocal music, including popular songs and vocal ensemble experiences, but excluding opera. Chapter three examines instrumental music, such as the jew's-harp and mouth organ, accordion, guitar, mandolin and instrumental ensemble experiences, excluding keyboard music. Keyboard music of the organ and piano are covered in chapter four, and symphonic and operatic music are discussed in chapter five. Chapter six is an overview of musical activities of White's culture as represented in his novels.