Traces the evolution of the traditional instrument families of woodwind and brass, strings, percussion, and keyboard, from ancient times, and offers examples of unfamiliar instruments. Entries on individual instruments provide background on their history, use, construction, and associated music, and discuss personalities and technologies that have influenced its development. Contains sections on the traditional instruments, electronic instruments, ensembles, the authentic revival, and non-Western and obsolete instruments, with color and b&w photos and illustrations on every page. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.