Listen to This is designed to connect students’ interest in the music on their own playlists with great music from throughout history and all over the world. It is based on the idea that all music is built on a combination of a few basic elements — melody, dynamics, rhythm, harmony, texture, timbre, form, and word-music relationships — and if students listen for those elements they can better understand how a piece of music works, no matter how unfamiliar it may seem at first. This elements-centered approach provides a strong foundation for learning about, and enjoying, many new musical styles. The Fourth Edition includes expanded coverage of timbre as well as new chapters on additional musical works.