Orchestra

Gr 3-6–This title is divided into three sections. The first section introduces all parts of the orchestra: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Select instruments are highlighted in double-page spreads followed by a more detailed description. Readers learn how a violin is made and how it works. The clarinet is emphasized in the woodwinds section. The second section, “The Music and Its Makers,” briefly explains how music is read and composed. Several biographies discuss composers and their famous works: topics include Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” and composition pioneer Amy Beach. The final part talks about opera, ballet, and musical theater. Nuovo’s writing is clear and enthusiastic, accompanied by Doran’s mid century–influenced illustrations. The text and the pictures display people of different cultures. A few women are given their due in this mostly male field. There is a solid index for report writers. A full glossary defines advanced words such as polymath and virtuoso.