Understanding Music

This book is about enjoying music. It tells you what is interesting about a whole range of musical styles, from plainsong to punk, so that you know what to listen for. It includes the colourful story of jazz and looks at the enormous variety of music around the world. A mass of musical terms are explained and there are lots of suggestions for music to listen to.

A section on the science of music explains how instruments work and why they sound different from each other. You can find out how concert halls are designed to produce the best effects. You can also discover how records, tapes and compact discs work, and take a look behind the scenes at a recording studio.

In addition, there is fascinating background information on how composers work and how to go about composing your own music. A chart of composers from the 16th century to the present describes their music and its relevance to the society of the time. Clear instructions tell you how to read music and there is advice on how to choose an instrument to learn.