The best books on Classical Music

This list of the best books on classical music, recommended by Igor Toronyi-Lalic, offers a comprehensive exploration of the genre. The selections include works that demystify the process of music-making and shed light on the social and historical context of classical music. George Bernard Shaw's 'Shaw’s Music' provides a witty and down-to-earth approach to music criticism, championing early music revival and composers like Gluck. Andrew Parrott's 'The Essential Bach Choir' delves into the contentious issue of how many people Bach wanted to sing in his great choral works, transforming our understanding of his music. Norman Lebrecht's 'The Maestro Myth' exposes the pomposity and commercial necessities behind the role of conductors, offering a candid look at their impact and management. Alex Ross's 'The Rest is Noise' weaves a compelling narrative of 20th-century classical music, intertwining it with the social history of the century. Finally, Jonathan Summers' 'A-Z of Pianists' is a comprehensive reference book that unearths both well-known and obscure figures in piano history, complete with recordings. These books collectively provide a rich and nuanced understanding of classical music, making them essential reads for any enthusiast.