Library Journal Review

Published in conjunction with Naxos, a distinguished but popularly priced classical music label, these two offerings are far more than just books. Each includes two CDs containing excerpts of many of the works discussed in the book, as well as access to a web site featuring more complete sound versions of the pieces, short pieces by contemporary composers, and some additional biographical material. Both authors have considerable experience writing about music and do a creditable job of presenting a readable account of their subject; Haylock is the editor of International Piano Quarterly, and Wenborn's credits include a biography of Mozart. The Puccini narrative is breezier and includes summaries of the plots of the important operas in addition to discussions of the music keyed to the CD excerpts. Haylock's writing is clear and without too much technical jargon in the narration, although the CD track annotations sometimes become rather analytical. Wenborn's style is a bit more academic, and because he is discussing mostly instrumental music, it includes considerably more technical analysis. (In neither book is the glossary very helpful.) Clearly, music appreciation books have entered the 21st century. Recommended for all public libraries.--Timothy J. McGee, Trent Univ., Ont. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.