Discovering Music offers the context that students need to appreciate music, in a concise format that is visually appealing. Written to inspire students to connect intellectually and emotionally with music from the Western canon and beyond, the text is supported by a suite of digital resources, including new "How to Listen" pedagogy that helps students deepen their listening experience.

The book opens with an introduction to the musical elements; the instruments of the orchestra; and a discussion of how to listen to music. New "Learn to Listen" pedagogy helps students experience and understand the elements of music. Then, each musical era is highlighted in individual parts, with a brief introduction to the key composers and developments that occurred in music and the related arts. "Interactive Listening Maps" offer guidance to students on how and why to listen to each work.