Music is the soundtrack to our lives. It entertains and gives private solace and inspiration, and it also tells the story of our past. Entwined with our history are the sounds that were the the symbols of power, the accompaniment to revolution, the noise of new ideas. From plainsong to jazz and from glittering Renaissance courts to Italian opera houses, James Naughtie explores the drama and the mystery of music. He visits the places that nurtured it and uncovers the characters who created it. Using his own experience of musicians and his inquisitive eye, he finds a world of imagination, genius and surprise. The Making of Music will absorb the curious as well as the committed music lover. James Naughtie uses that blend of expertise and approachability that he brings to radio and television, to tell music's passionate and original story.

Author Biography

James Naughtie has been a presenter of Radio 4's Today programme since 1994. He is a former chief political correspondent of the Guardian, his Westminster career having begun on the Scotsman. As well as his news journalism, for which he has won many awards, he has presented many music programmes on BBC radio and television, including Proms from the Royal Albert Hall and live opera and orchestral music from across Europe. On BBC Radio 4, he chairs Bookclub each month, and as well as his work on Today he has presented many live events for radio, including the last three general elections and major state occasions. He has written three political books: Playing the Palace, The Rivals and The Accidental American. He is married with three children.