Arranged chronologically, this book includes reviews of 1001 classical recordings, from the earliest hymns to the modern avant-garde. Written by an international panel of distinguished music journalists, each entry highlights an outstanding recording, ranging from little-known solo pieces and chamber music to the greatest concertos, symphonies, operas, and choral works. The very best recorded performance of each piece is recounted accompanied by a list of recommended alternatives, quotations, and biographical information about the composers, conductors, and principal musicians. 1001 Classical Recordings You Must Hear Before You Die is the key to understanding and appreciating the entire body of classical music. From medieval madrigals to important living composers such as Steve Reich and Philip Glass, it is all here, along with heavy-hitting greats that many have heard of but perhaps not listened to--Brahms, Bruckner, Dvorak, Mahler, Sibelius--all the greatest works by the finest composers past and present are surveyed and described in one handy volume. Beguiling sonatas, moving arias and operas, uplifting choral works, and dramatic symphonies. All are described in reviews that also explain why particular recordings stand out. It is possible to browse in any number of ways through the 1001 selections, discovering new types of music, new composers, and works to explore.