Principles of Orchestration

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View books by N.Rimsky- Korsakov.

More of Historical Interest - Rated
I've just read through this book and looked at quite a few of the musical examples. I managed to get through three years of music college (composition at the Royal Academy of Music in London) and nearly forty years as a professional musician since without its benefit. It was still interesting although I don't think I learned anything particularly new.

A beginner at orchestration will definitely need something more modern as RK was writing about very different orchestras and instrumental techniques from those of today but perhaps its greatest value is in the wealth of orchestral examples in the second part which writers of some experience will be able to mine for ideas.

A good book to learn the style of Korsakov - Rated
After reading this book, i rather enjoyed it.. Its really nice to have basic instruction with examples taken from Korsakov's own works.. Good book, though a bit old in the style of orchestration. A good one to learn the Old Style of this composer

Overall great book. - Rated
Although old, this book provides a great deal of information. Each section is brief and to the point.