Classical music today has a bigger and more universal following than ever, the age of the CD making it accessible to a vast audience. Here is a book that will bring vividly to life the worlds of some of our greatest composers. Taking the form of a chronological diary from 1600 to the present day, it leads the reader through the centuries, year by year, and follows the great composers' overlapping and interweaving lives. It contains details of: the main musical works and events of the year; the life and background of each composer; concurrent historical and artistic events and influences. Carefully cross-referenced with the chronological data are a series of special features discussing in detail the key works, influences on musical form and performance, the changing working conditions and status of the musicians, and the development of musical instruments. The book includes: extracts from original letters and journals; hundreds of illustrations reproducing posters, cartoons, photographs, documents and musical scores; an extensive reference section including biographies, a timeline and a guide to the top recordings and performers.