A stunning work of research and imagination that sheds new light of the ancient world.

This completely new edition of The Penguin Guide to the 1000 Finest Classical Recordings reviews the best classical albums issued and reissued over the past five decades, many of which dominate the catalog because of their sheer excellence, irrespective of recording dates. More comprehensive than ever before, it indicates key recordings on CD, DVD, and enhanced SACD, including those in surround sound. If you want the finest available version of any major classical album, you will find it listed and assessed in these pages.

Ranging from long-established albums to the newest releases, the latest edition represents the cream of the international repertoire and has all the information you need to select the finest classical music available.

Ivan March is a well-known lecturer, journalist, and writer in the world of recorded music.

Edward Greenfield was on the staff of The Guardian (London) for forty years and is a regular BBC broadcaster.

Robert Layton is a journalist.

Paul Czajkowski is a journalist