Nice work if you can get it

the long version

One of the most popular interpreters of the classic American song is also a real writer, as evidenced by Michael Feinstein's spirited, witty, enormously entertaining book about his love affair with Tin Pan Alley. In his early twenties Feinstein moved to Los Angeles and through Oscar Levant's widow, June, was introduced to one of his idols, Ira Gershwin. For the next six years he immersed himself in the world of the Gershwins - Ira and the living memory of his brother George - cataloguing records, music, and memorabilia, and in the process discovering his true calling: ensuring the continued vitality of the American popular song. Nice Work If You Can Get It chronicles not only Feinstein's appreciation of the Gershwins, but also of Cole Porter, Harry Warren (42nd Street), Sammy Cahn, and Irving Berlin. Tommy Tune, Liza Minnelli, Rosemary Clooney, and other musical luminaries also make appearances in a volume full of anecdotes about every major figure in American musical theater and cabaret, with a firm grounding in the art of songwriting itself.