A great, board overview of classical music from the mid-1000s until modern instrumentals. It discusses theory, periods, eras, artists, schools, etc. Being an audiobook, it's accompanied by many samples of the music discussed. ( )

This book covers the development of classical music from the Gregorian chant through the twentieth century. This review of music largely dissects European music, although toward the end of the book American, South American, and Asian developments in classical music are also discussed. While the book sometimes examines large movements in the evolution of classical music, it mainly focuses on individual composers. It gives the reader a mini-biography on many composers, from the well known to some more obscure although still important figures. The reader learns a bit about the composers background, including some interesting factoids (for instance, Bach had 20 children!), and also about the composer’s most important contributions to classical music. In addition, the audiobook format is really a plus here, as the book is interspersed with excerpts from the works discussed. This really helps the reader to fully comprehend what the text discusses and develop an ear for individual composers' styles. ( )

A terrific use of the audiobook format, this book contains music samples that reinforce the text. My only complaint is that it was so short; I'd love to see each period broken down further, with more composers profiled. I'd buy a separate book on each period if it came to it. ( )