Derived from the classic Oxford Dictionary of Music, this is the most authoritative dictionary of music available in paperback. Up-to-date and clearly written, it is a rich mine of information for lovers of music of all periods and styles. Written by Michael Kennedy, a renowned authority on classical music and chief music critic for The Sunday Telegraph, from 1989 to 2005, the dictionary includes over 14,000 entries on musical terms from allegro to zingaro, and on musical works from Aida to Tosca, as well as musical instruments and their history, composers, librettists, musicians, singers, and orchestras. It also boasts comprehensive works lists for major composers. Fully revised and updated, the 5th edition of this established reference work contains over 200 new entries, including information on approximately 150 new performers. Essential reference for music students and teachers, and fascinating reading for all other music enthusiasts.

Table of Contents

PREFACE; ABBREVIATIONS; DESIGNATION OF NOTES BY LETTERS; DICTIONARY

Reviews

This fifth edition of classical music's Concise Oxford Dictionary beats all comers. Its range and detail go far beyond what one would normally expect of a single volume. Jeremy Nicholas, Classic FM Magazine [A] cornerstone of music lovers' libraries...eminently browsable, with excellent articles on major composers from Beethoven to Stockhausen as well as intriguing facts and details. Daniel Jaffe, BBC Music Magazine