THE FIRST BOOK OF THE GRAMOPHONE RECORD. By Percy A.
Scholes. Second edition. (Oxford
University Press. 4s. 6d. net.)-This is a revised edition of Mr. Scholes' admirable guide to gramophone music. It covers the period between Byrd and Beethoven, and includes a lucid, instructive account of fifty-seven records. Mr. Scholes tells us that in choosing the records he has been guided by a balance of three principles : (1) the quality of the work, (2) the quality of the performance, and (3) the representative value of the composition. The analysis of each record is swiftly carried out, involving a minimum of technical termin- ology. In the case of vocal records, the words arc given, together with a translation, where necessary. In addition, the name of the recording company is announced in each case, and also the price of the record: Since the first edition of this book, the Polydor and Parlophone Companies have justified the inclusion of some of their work, through such fine record- ings as are given of the " Unfinished Symphony " (under Alocrike in the one case and Klemperer in the other), and Schubert's 14,:rlkonig (sung by Hermann Jadeowker).
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