Following the established sequence for Music Appreciation texts, the book opens with an introduction to the musical elements; the instruments of the orchestra; and a discussion of how to listen to music. Then, each musical era is highlighted in individual parts, with a brief introduction to the key composers and developments that occurred in music and the related arts. Individual chapters focus on key figures or movements, with detailed Listening Maps offering unique guidance to students on how and why to listen to each work. In between each part, Musical Journeys allow students to make connections with non-Western musical traditions.