The Oxford History of English Music

`Caldwell has presented a valuable overview of a complex and difficult subject that is not to be taken too lightly.' Music Teachers Online Journal `Caldwell's authority and erudite manner captivate the reader ... his analysis of the complexities of theatrical music in the 18th century, in particular the demise of opera seria, and the rise of the ballad opera is handled with a convincing authority.' Music Teachers Online Journal `Caldwell has done an impossible job exceedlingly well. His book is beautifully produced.' Robert Ponsonby, BBC Music Magazine `This is a narrative in which compositional genres, and in the later stages, composers themselves, are introduced, chronologically and comprehensively ... there is so much to interest and provoke in these pages that even readers who might boldly claim to have read more on this-or-that aspect of the subject than Caldwell himself must concede that the task has been impressively accomplished ... Comprehensive introductions can do no other, and this one is as stimulating and substantial as the best of its kind.' Arnold Whittall, Musical Times, Winter 1999 `This title completes Caldwell's stunning achievement: a two volume treatment of English music... this volume surveys music from Handel to 1997 in seven brilliant detailed chapters. Throughout Caldwell's prose is elegant and pointed, his command of primary and secondary literatures is astonishing, his judgments enthusiastic and candid.' Choice May 2000 `It is difficult for an author of what is likely to be a standard work to balance objectivity with the need to convince the reader that he is writing from experience of the music. Caldwell does this very well. ... it is an amazing achievement and it is difficult to imagine anyone else being more successful.' Early Music Review, 58, March 2000