Ballet (Classic FM Handy Guides)

by Tim Lihoreau

From its early inception at the French court to modern-day developments and interpretations, ballet has long had a popular following. Packed full of essential information, this pocket-sized handbook explores the history, performers, composers and music, highlighting the very best ballets and the stand-out tracks that should feature in the collection of any aficionado. Classic FM's Handy Guides are a fun and informative set of introductions to standout subjects within classical music, each of which can be read and digested in one sitting: a perfect collectible series whether you're new to the world of classical music or an aficionado.

Tim Lihoreau is the presenter of Classic FM's More Music Breakfast. He is the author of fifteen books, including The Incomplete and Utter History of Classical Music, which accompanied the award-winning Classic FM series of the same name, presented by Stephen Fry.

Contents Introduction vii 1 Preface 1 2 A Brief History of Ballet 3 3 Great Choreographers and Dancers 23 4 Composers of Ballet Music 35 5 The Ballet Hall of Fame 51 6 50 Ballet Tracks to Download 65 7 Where To See Ballet 79 About Classic FM 93 About the Author 97 Index 99