Classical Music for Dummies - Paperback

by David Pogue (Author), Scott Speck (Author)

Classical music was never meant to be an art for snobs!

In the 1700s and 1800s, classical music was popular music. People went to concerts with their friends, they brought snacks and drinks, and cheered right in the middle of the concert.

Well, guess what? Three hundred years later, that music is just as catchy, thrilling, and emotional.

From Bach to Mozart and Chopin, history's greatest composers have stood the test of time and continue to delight listeners from all walks of life. And in Classical Music For Dummies, you'll dive deeply into some of the greatest pieces of music ever written. You'll also get:

• A second-by-second listening guide to some of history's greatest pieces, annotated with time codes
• A classical music timeline, a field guide to the orchestra, and listening suggestions for your next foray into the classical genre
• Expanded references so you can continue your studies with recommended resources
• Bonus online material, like videos and audio tracks, to help you better understand concepts from the book

Classical Music For Dummies is perfect for anyone who loves music. It's also a funny, authoritative guide to expanding your musical horizons--and to learning how the world's greatest composers laid the groundwork for every piece of music written since.

Back Jacket

Unlock a whole new world of musical magic

Classical music was never meant to be an art for snobs. In the 1700s and 1800s, classical music was popular music. People went to concerts with their friends, brought snacks and drinks, and cheered right in the middle of the concert. Today, 300 years later, that music is just as catchy, thrilling, and emotional. This book takes you on a journey of discovery and understanding--of the classical orchestra, the music its members play, and the brilliant, colorful composers who wrote that music. Our online bonus tracks bring it all to life!

Inside...

• A simple definition of classical music
• A field guide to the orchestra
• Classical music's greatest hits
• What makes a composer tick
• A diverse look into classical music history
• Suggestions for your playlist

Author Biography

David Pogue is a six-time Emmy-winning "CBS Sunday Morning" correspondent, a New York Times bestselling author, and a former Broadway conductor and arranger.

Scott Speck is an internationally acclaimed conductor and author who has delighted audiences in London, Paris, Moscow, Beijing, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and countless other cities.