The History of Classical Music (The Music Library)

Over the centuries, classical Western music has remained a vital force in society. "History of Classical Music" travels through time to investigate this musical genre throughout the ages from the mediaeval period through the Renaissance, Baroque, classical, romantic, and modern eras.

Reviewed with Stuart A. Kallen's The History of Jazz.

Gr. 6-10. Well-researched and clearly presented, these titles in the Music Library series offer excellent introductions to Western music's history. Classical follows the genre from Medieval times into the present, closing with a description of avant-garde composer John Cage's 4'33"-- 4 minutes and 33 seconds of silence. Jazz gives an equally succinct overview, following the music's evolution from its African roots through contemporary forms. Both volumes are greatly enhanced by fascinating excerpts from primary material, including articles, letters, and diaries, often in the words of the composer or musician. Kallen also takes note of the artists' difficult lives; Jazz in particular is upfront about addictions and harrowing life experiences (including prostitution) as well as the brothels and speakeasies that gave birth to the music. Both books contain astute examples of music's vitality--how both classical and jazz forms are continually rediscovered, celebrated, and turned into something new. The thin paper and poorly reproduced photos detract from the books' visual appeal, but students reading for reports or for personal interest will find much useful information in these volumes. Gillian Engberg
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