This authoritative survey constitutes the first thorough English-language exploration of the concerto as a musical form. The musical form's long and colorful history is explored in critical terms accessible to lay readers as well as specialists forming a listener's guide an important musicological study and a fascinating reading experience.Examining the social economic and personal factors that influenced the concerto's growth author Abraham Veinus also summarizes the contributions of theorists composers and musicians and defines the genre's terms and the changing nature. He traces the early development of the concerto as well as that of the concerto grosso theearly solo concerto classic forms Beethoven's characteristic use of the form the Romantic concerto and the modern concerto. A pleasure to read and a valuable reference this volume is an ideal companion for musicians music students and lovers of classical music.Reprint of the 1963 revised edition published by Doubleday Doran and Company 1945 and Cassell and Company Limited 1948.'Sound history intelligent evaluation and a good literary style.' - Library Journal'Colorful and interesting ... a very valuable addition to our rising literature in musicology.' - Saturday Review'An excellent and eminently readable history.' - New York Herald Tribune