Contemporary composers

[Ric.ror]

I have just become interested in Classical music - Can anyone recommend a book to tell me everything I need to know and any contemporary composers - I am familiar with James McMillian

[snapdarlich]

For a book epecially aimed at contemporary composers in particular, I don't know sorry.

But as a reference guide with anybody you can think of try here.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/muze/classical.shtml

It's powered by a reduced version of the Grove dictionary of music (About 20 Volumes like encyclopedia Brittanica - but just music)

Or if you want something to browse through. There is a concise version of the Grove collection in one volume at �30,but you'll be able to find it much cheaper elsewhere. I would say that if you're starting to get interested in Classical music, you will begin to go further and further back. It's amazing how much modern stuff was wrtten in the last 100 years.

BTW - Although his music is good. James Macmillan is an arrogant sod - much too up himself. But if you like his stuff - check this out.Amazing!

http://www.boosey.com/pages/cr/catalogue/cat_detail.asp?musicid=6108