A good introduction to the form of music for the layman. Copland presents the basics of theory in an easy to read manner geared towards actually listening to music, which is more useful and a dense theory text that does not help sharpen the listeners ear. I recommend this book for anyone who wants to attentively listen to an orchestra or band and doesn't have the time or resources for the formal study of music.

This is a classic. I recommend it for anyone that wants to expand their viewpoint of Classical music. I had lost this treasure in Katrina and I purchased it to replace it for my reference. Copland is one of Americas finest composers and his insights are useful to both musicians and non musicians alike.

i bought this book because it's so cheap. I was curious about what Copland would say in the book. In fact, it reminds me a lot of thing I have forgotten about writing the music, which is great.

My orchestra director recommended this book because it is the next logical step in musical development. I am a private music teacher and principal cellist in a symphony. Michael, my director, teaches at a university and asks his students to purchase this book. I found it absolutely fascinating and it helps to understand the differing styles and composers. Worth every penny! Aaron Copland is a genius.

On the back of my copy, it says "the best book of its kind I have ever seen - deems taylor"

I don't know if the latest edition still says that, but it's important to know what KIND of book this is. It was written in 1939, and its chapter on "Contemporary Music" is about composers who died long ago.

It's not exactly a "complete idiot's guide" to the subject of what goes on with classical music, but it's close.

Despite its age, it really is beautifully written and contains loads of good information about listening to classical music.