Discovering Great Music: A New Listener's Guide to the Top Classical Composers and Their Best Recordings

Rating:
Summary: What a splendid thing when one learns something brand new.
Review: Ever wanted to listen to classical music but didnt know what to listen to or whom first? This is a perfect book for the beginner wanting to know about classical music, or the seasoned listener that wants to fresh his memory of why classical music is such a wonderful experience. It tells of great recordings and why they are so, and gives a brief biography of the composers of the world. A nice companion to have while listening to your new found (or old) love of music.

Rating:
Summary: Very good advice
Review: Hemming does a very good job of sifting through the thousands of recordings available. After buying many of the recordings Hemming suggested, I can attest to his musical knowledge and taste. This book provides a tremendous boost to the person starting a classical music collection. My copy is falling apart because it has been used so often.

Rating:
Summary: Not balanced
Review: This book was a real disappointment. Mr. Hemming is almost exclusively interested in orchestral music, and addresses chamber music only when he has little choice -- with Chopin, for example. Beethoven's sonatas don't merit anyone's attention? Give me a break. There are more balanced, inclusive guides to be had.