Since its initial publication in 1981, Encyclopedia of Music in Canada has been recognized as a monumental record of the music of a country, an indispensable guide to all kinds of music: popular, folk, religious, concert, and other forms. The second edition advances this landmark work into the last decade of the twentieth century. It provides more than 3700 articles in all, with more than 500 pictures of people, places, scores, concert programs, and sheet music. Compiled by scores of experts, the Encyclopedia presents our musical heritage in all its aspects: historical, educational, critical, administrative, and commercial. Essays on modern composers and performers are accompanied by critical evaluations and complete discographies. The revisions in this edition reveal the vibrancy of the music scene in Canada today. A whole generation of new performers and composers emerged over the decade between the first and second editions. New technologies have had a profound impact; so have demographic changes and a heightened awareness of commercial realizties.
These and other influences are reflected in 820 new entries, and in the expansion of such entries as ethnomusicology and of the discography sections throughout the Encyclopedia. Some 200 earlier entries have been eliminated, others condensed. Access throughout has been improved. The Encyclopedia of Music in Canada explores the nation's music in all its richness and variety, from school bands to rock superstar, from community music festivals to the great concert halls. It describes the development of music as it has been and is studied, performed, and composed throughout Canada.