Discover Classical Music

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A newbie’s comprehensive guide to the joys of classical music, including introductions to forty of its greatest composers. Musical tastes may change, but the great classical composers maintain a devoted fan base—for centuries. For anyone who’s interested in classical music but finds it a bit intimidating or confusing, passionate fan and former music-industry executive Ian Christians has developed a unique approach to the genre, designed to make it as easy as possible for new listeners to explore with confidence. With a distinctly unsnobbish air, Discovering Classical Music concentrates on the most legendary composers, taking you step-by-step into their most approachable music and, in some cases, boldly into some of the greatest works traditionally considered too difficult for newcomers. Rarely does a book offer such potential for years of continued discovery and enjoyment. “I recommend [this book] wholeheartedly to new music lovers everywhere.” —Sir Charles Groves, CBE, from the Foreword

Winner of: Parents' Choice Gold Award 2014 National Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA) Gold Award A children's guidebook to the fantastical characters and creatures found in classical music. The works of Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Verdi, and others are introduced to children through the magical beings from legends and classic tales--including gnomes, fairies, witches, goblins, elves, and wizards--that inspired the composers. An original and interesting way for younger listeners to discover classical music, this book pairs three centuries of music history with stunning and evocative illustrations and includes a glossary of musical terms, a short biography of each composer, and a brief presentation of each extraordinary character. The accompanying CD features 20 excerpts from various recordings performed by world-class luminaries, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra, La Scala Chorus and Orchestra, and the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields.

"Is this a book with a CD or a CD with a book? ... a 350 page book with a CD of 152 tracks and over nineteen hours of music, not to mention the website with classical concert listings, news, releases and offers ... " -- Publishers note p. 3.

"I recommend this book wholeheartedly to new music lovers" Sir Charles Groves CBE Thanks to Nigel Kennedy and Pavarotti, millions of people have recently discovered that classical music is a highly enjoyable experience, perhaps contrary to their expectations. But the world of classical music can be highly intimidating and confusing. Ian Christians, for many years a passionate believer in broadening the interest in classical music, has developed a unique approach, designed to make it as easy as possible for both newcomers to classical music and those who have started down the path to explore with confidence. Discovering Classical Music concentrates on the greatest composers. The author takes you step-by-step into their most approachable music and, in some cases, boldly into some of the greatest works traditionally considered too difficult for newcomers. Rarely does a book offer such potential for continued enjoyment.This volume concentrates on the life, personality and music of Edward William Elgar.

Learn about the world’s greatest classical compositions and musical traditions in The Classical Music Book. Part of the fascinating Big Ideas series, this book tackles tricky topics and themes in a simple and easy to follow format. Learn about Classic Music in this overview guide to the subject, great for novices looking to find out more and experts wishing to refresh their knowledge alike! The Classical Music Book brings a fresh and vibrant take on the topic through eye-catching graphics and diagrams to immerse yourself in. This captivating book will broaden your understanding of Classical Music, with: - More than 90 pieces of world-famous music - Packed with facts, charts, timelines and graphs to help explain core concepts - A visual approach to big subjects with striking illustrations and graphics throughout - Easy to follow text makes topics accessible for people at any level of understanding The Classical Music Book is a captivating introduction to music theory, crucial composers and the impact of seminal pieces, aimed at adults with an interest in the subject and students wanting to gain more of an overview. Here you’ll discover more than 90 works by famous composers from the early period to the modern day, through exciting text and bold graphics. Your Classical Music Questions, Simply Explained From Mozart to Mendelssohn, this fresh new guide goes beyond your typical music books, offering a comprehensive overview to classical music history and biography. If you thought it was difficult to learn about music theory, The Classical Music Book presents key information in an easy to follow layout. Explore the main ideas underpinning the world’s greatest compositions and musical traditions, and define their importance to the musical canon and into their wider social, cultural, and historical context. The Big Ideas Series With millions of copies sold worldwide, The Classical Music Book is part of the award-winning Big Ideas series from DK. The series uses striking graphics along with engaging writing, making big topics easy to understand.