An introduction to the great composers and music masterpieces of Western culture, including composer biographies with emphasis on how composers synthesize or transform the aesthetic ideals of their time. Examines how composers' music reflects their own lives as well as mirrors contemporary social, political, and religious events. Historical periods include the ancient world and the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras. Composers include Josquin, Lassus, Palestrina, Monteverdi, Purcell, Vivaldi, Handel and Bach.