This study provides a fuller account of Bruckner's early and middle years than has hitherto been available, and supplements the more accessible information about his years in Vienna by drawing on a rich source of material in contemporary reviews of performances of his works, comparisons between him and Brahms, and the well-documented accounts of hostility between the conservative pro-Brahms faction (represented by Hanslick, Halbeck and others) and the progressive pro-Wagner and pro-Bruckner faction (represented by the Schalk brothers, Ferdinand Lowe and Hugo Wolf).

The ultimate guide to classical composers and their music-for both the novice and the experienced listener Music, according to Aaron Copland, can thrive only if there are "gifted listeners." But today's listeners must choose between classical and rock, opera and rap, and the choices can seem overwhelming at times. In The Essential Canon of Classical Music, David Dubal comes to the aid of the struggling listener and provides a cultural-literacy handbook for classical music. Dubal identifies the 240 composers whose works are most important to an understanding of classical music and offers a comprehensive, chronological guide to their lives and works. He has searched beyond the traditional canon to introduce readers to little-known works by some of the most revered names in classical music-Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Schubert-as well as to the major works of lesser-known composers. In a spirited and opinionated voice, Dubal seeks to rid us of the notion of "masterpieces" and instead to foster a new generation of master listeners. The result is an uncommon collection of the wonders classical music has to offer.

Authoritative guide presents 231 of the most frequently performed pieces by 55 composers. A must for music lovers and musicians alike. "No lover of chamber music should be without this Guide." — John Barkham Reviews.

A guide to the symphony, with commentary on 118 works by 36 composers.