THE VICTOR BOOK OF BALLETS AND BALLET MUSIC

Latest in this series of handbooks for the layman by the present conductor of the Phoenix (Arizona) Symphony whose dance column has appeared in the New York Herald Tribune In a brief introduction the author offers a discussion of the development of ballet -- its beginnings, national and school development, influential personalities and short biographies of contemporary leaders. The bulk of the book is concerned with an exposition of 130 ballets-with plots, choreography, history and music illustrated by selected themes. There is also a list of recorded ballet music. Invaluable as a ballet reference book. Also the author has not hesitated to add his own evaluations of the contemporary ballet scene -- a refreshing departure from scholarly egg-walking. A reliable item in or out of the series.