Take Note: An Introduction to Music Through Active Listening

by Robin Wallace

Take An Introduction to Music Through Active Listening is an innovative music appreciation text, designed to help students become active and attentive listeners through an in-depth examination of a recurring repertory of core musical works. By exploring each element of music through the lens of these core works--which were carefully selected to represent a variety of styles and genres--students deepen their understanding of how music works and develop strong listening skills that will enhance their enjoyment of music. Combining this listening-centered approach with an overview of Western music history, interactive activities, and in-text features that invite students to discover additional works outside of the classroom, Take Note prepares students for a lifetime of music appreciation.

Distinctive features
* Listening-centered approach : develops students' understanding of the basic elements of music
* Recurring core repertory : explores the elements of music through a select group of musical works that reflect a variety of styles (piano, winds, brass, and percussion) and genres (jazz, lieder, world, and choral music)
* Historical context : gives students an overview of Western music from the Medieval period to the present through a 3-chapter historical survey, timelines, and "Focus On," "In History," and "Across the Arts" boxes
* "If You Liked This Music" boxes : encourages students to expand their playlists and listening skills beyond the core repertory by offering additional listening suggestions throughout the text
* Dashboard for Take Note : offers Spotify playlists for key selections in the text plus auto-graded quizzes and other study materials. Save money by purchasing a new book bundled with a Dashboard access code or purchase Dashboard separately at

448 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2014