A Concise History of Western Music

Engaging, clear and informative, this is the story of western music - of its great composers, its performers and listeners, and of the ever changing ideas of what music is and what it is for. Paul Griffiths shows how music has evolved through the centuries, and suggests how musical evolution has reflected developments in history and culture. The book provides an enticing introduction for students and beginners, using the minimum of technical terms, all straightforwardly defined in the glossary. Its perspective and its insights will also make it illuminating for teachers, musicians and music lovers. Suggestions for further reading and recommended recordings are given at the end of each of the 24 short chapters.