In this engaging preface by W.S.B. Mathews, the author sets out to present a comprehensive yet accessible exploration of musics rich history‚Aîall within the confines of a single, concise volume. With a keen focus on the vibrant developments of recent times, this work aims to resonate with contemporary readers by highlighting the significance of musics evolution. A glance at the Table of Contents (pages 5-10) reveals the breadth of topics covered, which is remarkable given that renowned musical historians like Naumann, Ambros, and F©tis have needed three to ten times more space to address similar themes. While opinions on the success of this endeavor may vary among experts, Mathews offers a genuine approach rooted in years of lecturing at the Chicago Musical College, where he has passionately engaged with these subjects in about thirty-five lectures each year. Drawing on the works of notable historians such as F©tis, Ambros, and Riemann, along with various dictionaries and modern monographs, this book promises to be an enlightening journey through the art of music.