Raising the Roof!

‘Classical music is not an ivory tower or a distant bubble: we welcome new listeners and want you involved!’ (p. 76). This sums up the aims of this detailed book written by enthusiastic and passionate young composer Jack Pepper. Approximately half of this colourful paperback considers the nature of classical music and its influences today and its future path. Readers will find the pages given over to explaining the meanings of different types of music e.g. Concerto, Choral, Chamber most helpful. This handbook is inclusive and international in scope. The second half of the book comprises biographical information and musical history of twenty composers. The first composer to be considered is Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) with later figures looked at in chronological order. Famous names such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Giuseppe Verdi appear as well as the lesser-known Joseph Bologne and Florence Price, for example.

There are many features of this wide-ranging book which readers will find helpful. Timelines are frequently included, and difficult or unusual terms are clearly explained e.g. ‘stile concitato (‘agitated style’)’ p.35. At the end of the volume there are useful places to go for more information. There are paragraphs interspersed throughout this paperback which are headed ‘Listen!’ and highlight particular pieces of music for the reader to add to their personal playlist.

As a pianist and classical music lover I found this publication fascinating and bursting with terms, explanations and information I had not come across previously. The illustrations are brightly coloured, stylish and bring the text to life. This book would be suitable for anyone over the age of eight and would make a thoughtful gift. I am sure it will appeal to budding musicians as well as those already immersed in the subject.