This CD is only "classical" in the sense that it is music by an orchestra. It does not mean that the music is from the classical ERA of music. It is still beautiful music, but those of you who are trying to learn to distinguish the different time periods will be disappointed. The CD actually does claim to be from the classical ERA but actually has much baroque era and romantic era music on it (the romantic CD by the same publisher is also not era specific). In regard to some of the other reviews, while the classical era did have an emotionally detatched quality, not all of the music on here is classical! Still, for those of you looking for an introduction to "classical" music, it is a beautiful CD.

I'm not much of a classical music buff, but I realized not too long ago that I do like many of the "popular" classical music tracks. Since then I have been on the lookout for a collection of "famous" classical music tracks that would appeal to the layman (so as to develop my interest in classical music further, and also to familiarize myself with some of the more famous classical tunes). Saw this CD on sale and bought it on a whim, and I havent been disappointed. The collection is indeed very nice, and my only gripe is that there isnt a single Beethoven track!! (and I wonder why non of the other user reviews mention this).

If you want some Classical music to sleep to, don't buy this CD. If you want some high energy symphonies, however, I highly recommend it. From Bach to Vivaldi, the pure energy of this CD will give you a new understanding of the joys of Classical music. Just don't listen to Track 25, because I have no idea why John Philip Sousa is included with Tchaichovsky.