I can't thank Fred Plotkin enough for openning a whole new chapter in my life. If you always loved classical music but didn't know where to start, how to learn more and find out what you really like, start here. It took some effort to borrow most of the CDs from the library and rip them to my iPod. I did all my listening in the car on the way to work. This takes a bit of juggling of the audio book then the playlists I set up for each chapter. Every effort was worth the result. I actually learned how to listen to music, really listen - I don't think I ever really did that before. From there you go on a wonderful journey through a wide range of music, enough to give you a taste of many areas and to guide you where to explore on your own. Fred's love of music is totally infectious, his warmth and enthusiasm really heart warming. I feel like I know him as a good friend after we shared many trips to work together. I have since subscribed to my local symphony orchestra, and bought a set of my very favourite music that I am working through and enjoying. There is just so much depth and emotion in classical music don't expect to enjoy it as background music or at a low volume, you need to really listen and take the time and focus to really hear it. Get this book and get started! ( )

This is a wonderful book for those who really want to know more about classical music. ( )