Every copy of this text includes two free audio CDs at no additional cost. These include a complete core listening program of 32 selections that covers the entire text. Music downloads and streaming music are available within the optional CourseMate learning environment. * 43 concise chapters provide instructors with the flexibility to tailor the course to suit the needs of a wide variety of students and can be read in one sitting. * Margin notes -- as many as 5 or 6 per page -- help to accelerate student comprehension. * The book offers coverage of popular music as well as a substantial sample of music from different cultures around the world. * Short composer biographies and informational boxes offer cultural and social background that enriches the musical selections.