A comprehensive guide to the history of music, from opera to electronica. Produced in association with the Smithsonian and including images from The National Music Museum in South Dakota, the progression of music since its prehistoric beginnings, discussing not just Western classical music but music from all around the world. Musical developments era by era, linking musical theory, technology, and human genius into the narrative. Profiles the lives of groundbreaking musicians from Mozart to Elvis, takes an in-depth look at the history and function of various instruments, and includes listening suggestions for each music style.

Includes index.

Early beginnings: 60,000 BCE-500 CE -- Music in the Middle Ages: 500-1400 -- Renaissance and Reformation: 1400-1600 -- The Baroque spirit: 1600-1750 -- The Classical age: 1750-1820 -- Nationalism and romance: 1820-1910 -- Music in the Modern Age:1910-1945 -- Global music: 1945-present.