An engaging introduction to the art of listening, starting with folk music familiar to all, and proceeding to the ways musical pieces are constructed from parts. Using a conversational style, the author draws out from the reader the points he wants to make, illustrating them with short musical pieces that appeal to a broad audience. Along the way he gives tips of what to listen for, strengthening his reader's listening skills by such games as 'Camouflaged Tunes.' In the course of the book, Scholes gives a brief history of classical music and introduces many of the noted composers, whetting appetite for further listening opportunities. Musical terms are introduced only as needed, with a full glossary at the end of the book of terms the student is likely to encounter.