Classical music encyclopedia

The ''Classical Music Encyclopedia'' is a family reference work organised chronologically, covering the development of classical music from ancient times to the modern day. The book is divided into eras - Music in Ancient Civilisations; Early European Folk-Song; the Medieval Era; the Renaissance Era; the Early Baroque; late Baroque and the Classical Era; the Romantic Era; Nationalism and the Romantic Legacy; the Modern Era; and the Late 20th Century. All aspects of each era are covered, with entries on composers, performers, musical developments, historical context and instruments, to give a complete guide to the music of that time and how it was evolving and why. Graphically-led listening guides take the reader through the audio CD that accompanies the book, as well as listing the best recordings of the essential compositions.