Musical Instruments of the World: An Illustrated Encyclopedia

Musical Instruments of the World presents a visual, historical review of musical instruments and sociogroupings of instruments. It demonstrates man's need to communicate and share sound creatively through the ages.

I've owned this book since 1978 and it has been a constant companion and reference guide. It's absolutely wonderful, and I recommend it unreservedly for musicians, academics and fans alike!

I am a digital samplist, and therefore need to be able to get an idea of what any instrument in the world may look like so I can associate an image with sounds in my libraries. This book has really helped me get a handle on world instruments. I recommend it highly for those needing such documentation.

Encyclopedia showing every musical instrument you can think of, from its primitive origins to modern orchestral versions. No photos, but good detailed drawings that show multiple variations of native instruments. Minimal but clear discussion on construction, method of playing, sound production etc. Attractive layout, thorough and apparently scholarly. Originally British, published in 1976.

This book is the very best guide to the instruments of the world I have ever seen. I bought it back in the 80's when it was first published, and I still use it today when I need to see what a Kalimba from the Sudan might look like (or other such unusual specific). The Diagram Group is the fantastic assemblage of artists that illustrated and produced this most handsome volume. Each page is a masterpiece of design and "infographics" and, although printed in two-color only, shines with a level of detail and expertise you will not find elsewhere. I can't say enough about how good this book is. If you have any reason to enjoy the vast number of musical instruments mankind has created, and if you want to know the hows, whys and wheres about musical instruments, then get this book! I think it's so good that I'm ordering a new one to replace my dog-eared copy.