Hannah Smith (1849-1939) was a composer for children and an educator. In 1903 she published the popular Founders of Music, a series of biographical sketches of composers written for children. Written in 1898, when Wagner had been dead for only fifteen years, this is a concise history of music and instruments, aimed at the enthusiast. Covering broad subjects rather than concentrating on a few composers, Smith discusses not just the development of musical styles but also how musical notation developed, how the ear functions and how musical instruments produce the sounds they do. The tastes of the time are evident, particularly in the surprisingly detailed discussion of the Oratorio: however, the book allows us to see how music and its progress were regarded at the turn of the twentieth century, before composers such as Stravinsky and Schoenberg shook the musical establishment.

What is a sonata? Literally translated, it simply means 'instrumental piece'. It is the epitome of instrumental music, and is certainly the oldest and most enduring form of 'pure' and independent instrumental composition, beginning around 1600 and lasting to the present day. Schmidt-Beste analyses key aspects of the genre including form, scoring and its social context - who composed, played and listened to sonatas? In giving a comprehensive overview of all forms of music which were called 'sonatas' at some point in musical history, this book is more about change than about consistency - an ensemble sonata by Gabrieli appears to share little with a Beethoven sonata, or a trio sonata by Corelli with one of Boulez's piano sonatas, apart from the generic designation. However, common features do emerge, and the look across the centuries - never before addressed in a single-volume survey - opens up new and significant perspectives.

Have you ever been carried away by a piece of classical music? The sad song of a single violin might make us cry, but the idea of finding out more about classical music can often be intimidating. In this funny, evocative, personal book, Gareth takes us on a journey of musical discovery that explains and entertains in equal measure. Over the course of three series of the Bafta award-winning The Choir, Gareth has unearthed a passion for classical music in schoolchildren, reluctant teenage boys, and even a whole town. With his infectious enthusiasm and gift for explanation, Gareth's very personal narrative takes you by the hand and leads you through a world of eccentric composers, flamboyant conductors, troubled geniuses and all the colourful personalities that make up the story of Classical Music. It will also provide a foundation of classical music understanding and give the reader the tools to appreciate a whole new world of music. So whether you want to expand your horizons, spend time with the great composers, introduce an almost infinite variety into your iPod playlist, or are just curious about what you might be missing out on, Music for The People will leave you entertained, informed and completely inspired.

(Boosey & Hawkes Chamber Music). Paramount among the Kronos Quartets' "translator"-arranger-composers has been Osvaldo Golijov. This collection includes six Golijov arrangements of works originating from Argentina, Cuba, Hungary, Mexico, and Portugal. CONTENTS: Paredes: Cancao Verdes Anos, Seress: Gloomy Sunday, Troilo: Responso, Lara: Se Me Hizo Facil, Briseno: El Sinaloense, and Margarita Lecuona: Tabu. This publication has been released in conjunction with the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Kronos Quartet.

(Vocal). Newly engraved and edited edition. With a detailed foreword. Includes versions for both High and Low voice in one volume.

(Pace Piano Education). A guided improv activity for piano lessons, recreation or general music built around Beethoven's famous piano piece, for early beginners and up. Includes teaching suggestions, cue-card cut-outs, along with the original version of Beethoven's Fur Elise as well as an easy arrangement.

(Schirmer Performance Editions). Schirmer Performance Editions are designed for piano students and their teachers as well as for professional pianists. These editions offer insightful interpretive suggestions, pertinent fingering, and historical and stylistic commentary. A new edition based on new research, with historical notes and performance suggestions.

(Boosey & Hawkes Scores/Books). A dream-like musical journey inspired by the legendary stretch of Sunset Boulevard.