Is it possible to compile and rank music that was composed prior to the 18th century; that is, before 1700? The answer is yes, if one considers a combination of Classical music listener polls, Classical music forum rankings, the numbers of recordings of early music, and the number of appearances of hymns in hymnbooks. With such a variety of resources, Christmas, Classical, Religious, and music written by Women can be listed and ranked, dating from eras that long preceded recording technology and official music charts. The music compiled in this book turns the clock way back to a timeline that extends from Ancient to Early & Middle Baroque. Some of the music predates music notation, but has nevertheless endured. The music also dates from a very long era during which nearly all compositions were for voice only. Instrumental music for the lute and viol and their partners, and later the harpsichord and organ, were only beginning to come in vogue. Nearly all of the music in the book's charts is from western Europe - to compensate for the geographical limitations, early artistry from beyond western Europe is discussed. The number one composition from the entire pre-18th century period, finally finding new life nearly three centuries after it was written, is Johann Pachelbel's "Canon & Gigue in D." But, don't stop with that piece of information, as there is a whole volume of music about which to learn, listen and love. So, get the book, and look inside...