When we speak of ampldquoclassical musicamprdquo it often refers rather loosely to serious ampldquoartamprdquo music but at the core is really the music of the classical period running from about 1730 to 1800 give or take. This was truly one of the most glorious periods for both composition and performance and it is this classical music which is still at the core of todayamprsquos repertoire. Obvious names connected with this period are Haydn Mozart and Beethoven but there were many more still reasonably well known like Gluck and C.P.E Bach and dozens more who are regrettably little known today.This Historical Dictionary of Music of the Classical Period includes not only these composers but also eminent conductors and performers patrons and publishers. There are also dictionary entries on major centers of musicmaking typical instruments important technical terms and emerging musical forms including the symphony and opera. Indeed with a 1000 crossreferenced entries there is information on most matters of interest. This is prefaced by an extensive chronology tracing the course of this period from year to year and an introduction taking a careful look at the period as a whole. Finally there is a substantial bibliography. Surely this is a book which will appeal not only to students and researchers but all musiclovers.