The Rest is Noise

Alex Ross’s 'The Rest is Noise' is a sweeping and engaging exploration of twentieth-century classical music, offering a vivid account of how musical innovation paralleled the political and social upheavals of the time. The book delves into the lives and works of composers such as Stravinsky, Schoenberg, and John Cage, illustrating how their music reflected the era's chaos and creativity. Winner of the Guardian First Book Award, this book is not just a history of music but a gripping narrative that connects the dots between art and history, making it a must-read for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike.