Classical Music—the perfect introductions: Books

A selection of books to recommend when asked: "What's the best way to introduce someone to Classical Music?"

Rock Me Amadeus
When Seb Hunter turned his back on his cherished rock record collection in search of more nourishing sounds, his simple aim was to try and feel passionate about classical music. What followed was a hilarious Euro-odyssey.

The Great Composers
Accessible and entertaining, but also informative and authoritative, this is the perfect introduction to the world of classical music for the general reader.

Stephen Fry’s Incomplete and Utter History of Classical Music
A potted and brilliantly rambling 700-year history of classical music and the world as we know it. Entertaining and brilliantly written, this is a pretty reckless romp of a history through classical music and much much more.

The Classic FM Pocket Book of Music
Tiny enough to keep in your pocket but it's also stuffed full of facts you always wanted to know about music. It attacks 125 subjects ranging from Beethoven to film music, and answers some long overdue questions along the way, such as "why are conductors like support tights?"

The Classic FM Pocket Book of Quotes
Over 100 witty comments about music: thought-provoking, whimsical, amusing, or just plain silly. And there's an extensive selection of musical insults.

Classic Ephemera
An entertaining collection of quips and quirks from the world of classical music.

And for the kids:

Why Beethoven Threw The Stew
Why Handel Waggled His Wig
Renowned cellist Steven Isserlis set out to pass on to children a wonderful gift given to him by his own cello teacher - the chance to people his own world with the great composers by getting to know them as friends. The text is packed with facts, dates and anecdotes, interspersed with lively black-and-white line illustrations, making these great books an attractive and accessible read for children to enjoy on their own or share with an adult.