This is an illustrated encyclopedia of the lives and works of the world's best composers. This is an authoritative guide to the lives and works of the 100 most famous classical composers encompassing all styles of composition from medieval times to the present day. It features at-a-glance fact boxes that summarize the composers' lives and key works. It includes a biography for each composer, with historical information about events and artistic movements of the time and a look at how the composer influenced or changed the development of their art form. It is fully illustrated with over 500 photographs and illustrations featuring composers' portraits, the places they are associated with, scenes from their ballets or operas, and examples of their handwritten manuscripts. This authoritative volume provides a beautifully illustrated guide to the most influential composers of classical music: those who have defined or developed particular styles of composition and created for themselves a significant place in music history. Starting from medieval times, the book gives detailed biographies covering the life and times of each composer, listing their most important works and placing them in their historical context. For the enthusiast looking for a reference volume of their favourite composers, or for all those who love classical music and want to find out more, "The Great Composers" is an essential companion.