The late Dennis Carlson uses the alternative nature of the Burlington, Vermont-bred band, Phish, and the larger impact of rock n roll to look at youth and revolutionary music culture. A History of Progressive Music and Youth Culture is designed for those who work with or teach young people to understand the nature and origin of musical commitment and devotion. For academics, the book traces a cultural study of rock which is unlike any other discussion of music or musicology published.

Dennis Carlson, Professor of Educational Leadership at Miami University of Ohio, taught curriculum, cultural studies and social foundations of education from 1990 until ill health forced his retirement in 2014. Carlson authored five significant books in the field of curriculum studies. In addition, he edited or contributed to dozens of other books in the field as well as having penned scores of refereed journal articles. The focus of his scholarship spanned issues pertained to teachers' work culture, progressive and democratic education, cultural studies, youth subcultures and gender and sexuality studies in education. Carlson was a brilliant scholar, respected colleague and admired teacher. He will be remembered fondly for his humble demeanor, the empathy afforded his students and his passionate dedication to the field of curriculum studies and educational leadership. Carlson lost his hard-fought battle with cancer in April 2015. He left many former students, colleagues and his dear partner of over 30 years, Kent.