The NPR Curious Listener's Guide to Classical Music

by Tim Smith

Book Overview

For the beginner or the devotee--it's everything the classical music buff needs to know. The major composers from Bach and Bartok to Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky Significant performers from Maurice... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0399527958
• Release Date: August 2002
• Publisher: TarcherPerigee
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.54 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.0" x 0.7" x 5.3"

Customer Reviews

Guide for the curious listener

I found this book to be a pleasent introduction to a greater understanding of the genre of classical music. It is helpful, but not necessary, to have some understanding of music theory. Knowing what such things as polyphony and monophony are about all that you need to know. The introduction nicley summarizes the book's theme. This is a much better and cheaper way to get introduced to classical music then through such other books as "Classical Music for Dummies," or the "Idiot's Guide to Classical Music." The only thing I found somewhat questionable about this book was the choice of cd's that have been selected for one to build a collection with; otherwise, this book is a valuble resource for liteners be they curious or even casual. For those serious about classical music this book will seem too elemental for their tastes.

NPR Curious Listener's Guide to Classical Music

I found this to be a very helpful, friendly over-all guide to classical music. It contains brief descriptions of major works, capsule bios of well-known composers, and lots of helpful information presented in an easy to understand, down to earth manner. As a novice to this type of music, I found the vast world of Classical repertoire a bit intimidating, but Mr. Smith is not the least bit pretentious, and I found his writings warm and welcoming. I'm sure that even seasoned classical music fans will find this book a handy reference.