1
of
1
Music
The Definitive Visual History
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still
learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Summary
Read More
Format: Hardback
$7000
Unit price
/
Unavailable
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER
Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 4-6 weeks
Found a better price? Request a price match
Music
$7000
Unit price
/
Unavailable
Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
Ideal for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts seeking an engaging and accessible overview of musical history. Perfect for readers interested in learning about different genres, iconic artists, and the instruments that shaped music across the ages.
Latest News
The Team's Long Weekend Reading
With the long weekend upon us, the team is hopefully getting some time in the...
What Actually Makes a Jigsaw Puzzle Difficult?
Does more pieces always mean a harder puzzle? Not necessarily! After Dylan surprised me by...
A Court of Splintered Harmony: How to Get Your Copy on Release Day
A Court of Splintered Harmony is almost here, and we have some exciting news for...
The ACOTAR Countdown Is On, But We Need to Talk…
Last week, things started taking a dark turn. The excitement surrounding the release was suddenly...
Pick up a Graphic Novel for Halloween
Wanting something different for spooky season? Try a horror themed graphic novel! Lizzy has rounded...
See more
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Description
A comprehensive and accessible visual history of music - from prehistory to the present day.
Why did jazz go Latin? And how did blues influence rock? Find out how music has shaped the world from prehistory to the present day.
Classical or rock, everyone has their favourite music style, but how did your top choice come about? Music is a compelling and richly illustrated history of the most unifying art form in the world. Explore the roots of all genres from chants of the middle ages through the grandeur of the classical period to the modern rhythm of blues, jazz, hip-hop, and pop. Music includes illustrated histories of instruments and listening suggestions for each musical genre.
Spectacular galleries display families of instruments from around the world, while special features showcase the evolution of key instruments, such as the piano and the guitar, and profile iconic innovators such as Mozart, Billie Holiday, and David Bowie.
Charting every musical revolution, from bone flutes to electronica and from jazz to hip-hop, this visually stunning history of music will hit the right note, whether you are into pop or rock, or disco or rap, classical or opera.
Series: DK Definitive Visual Encyclopedias
View all-
Animal
Comprehensive photographic guide to the animal kingdom receives update. Now in a new edition, this landmark photographic encyclopedia of the animal kingdom is revised with new species, images, and the latest scientific knowledge. Written by 70 natural history specialists, Animal features stunning wildlife photography of more than 2,000 of the world's most important wild mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects,...Hardback$9000Elsewhere:$10000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Animal Behaviour
A revealing visual exploration of animal behaviour A thrilling face-to-face encounter with animals in their own environment - their elaborate displays, intimate lives, and extraordinary behaviour. Did you know that elephants give each other names, orangutans self-medicate, and rats giggle? Animal Behaviour is full of hundreds of stories that shed light on how animals navigate life in the wild. Packed...Hardback$6800Elsewhere:$7500Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Earth
A fully updated edition of this beautifully illustrated, encyclopaedic guide to planet Earth. Explore and understand the natural and human wonders of our planet. Now in its third edition, this landmark encyclopedia both celebrates our planet and explains the science underpinning the forces and processes that have made and shaped it. Artworks, photographs, terrain models, and maps are used in...Hardback$6800Elsewhere:$7500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Plants and Fungi
Botanic... Mycologic... Fantastic! Comprehensive, accessible, and lavishly illustrated, this is an essential and timely guide to the world's key plant and fungus species. Written by specialist experts, Plants & Fungi is an illustrated exploration of the world's most fascinating species, many of which are highly valued for their ecological, economic, and cultural importance. Covering all of the main groups -...Hardback$6800Elsewhere:$7500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Ocean
A fully updated edition of this beautifully illustrated, encyclopaedic guide to Earth's oceans. An enhanced edition of DK's exhaustive guide to the underwater world. This authoritative, sumptuously illustrated encyclopaedia is now in its third edition. Illustrated with a blend of beautiful and informative artworks, maps, and photography, it is a broad-ranging, in-depth guide to both physical oceanography and marine life....Hardback$7000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
The Natural History Book
DK's biggest natural history book is given a fresh update. The only book to offer a complete visual survey of all Earth's kingdoms of life, plus rocks and minerals, it remains the benchmark of illustrated natural history reference. A monumental and beautiful guide to Earth's wildlife and natural history - its rocks, minerals, animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms - this...Hardback$6800Elsewhere:$7500Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Science
A beautifully illustrated, thematically arranged history of science—covering great scientists, inventions, and ideas—that has been updated to include the latest scientific advances. Delve into the story of science—from astronomy and biology to geology and mathematics—with this illustrated guide to the great scientists, discoveries, and inventions that shaped our world. Going from the dawn of science to the information age, Science...Hardback$9000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
History
From prehistoric times to the 21st century, the compelling story of world history may both surprise and inspire. This lavishly illustrated visual encyclopedia tells the story of our world in depth and detail from the dawn of civilization to the present day. Charting human endeavour from every angle, History chronicles the significant events, ground-breaking ideas, political forces, and technological advances...Hardback$9000Elsewhere:$10000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Bird
Global in scope, this encyclopaedia features a photographic catalogue of more than 1,270 bird species, making it a must-have for every avian enthusiast. The diversity and drama of the bird world is brought to breathtaking life in an encyclopaedic new edition. This photographic guide to every bird order and family profiles more than 1,280 species, pictured in their native environment...Hardback$6500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Music
A comprehensive and accessible visual history of music - from prehistory to the present day. Why did jazz go Latin? And how did blues influence rock? Find out how music has shaped the world from prehistory to the present day. Classical or rock, everyone has their favourite music style, but how did your top choice come about? Music is a...Hardback$7000Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Life
Magnificent imagery coupled with contextual and extensive information on dinosaurs and much more "Visitors to a natural history museum could not explore the number of examples contained here" - Booklist Fascinating and authoritative, this book is an unprecedented survey of millions of years of life on planet Earth. Featuring an incredible mix of 3-D reconstructions, extraordinary skeletons, and amazingly intricate...Hardback$6800Elsewhere:$7500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Universe
Explores every aspect of the cosmos, from the Big Bang to the edge of the known Universe. Marvel at the wonders of the Universe, from stars and planets to black holes and nebulae, in this exploration of our Solar System and beyond. Universe opens with a look at astronomy and the history of the Universe, using 3D artworks to provide...HardbackSold Out
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780241559024
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Ltd
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 02 June 2022
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: DK
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 30.0mm
Width: 243.0mm
Height: 287.0mm
Weight: 2034g
Pages: 400
Also by DK
View all-
Warhammer 40,000 Character Encyclopedia
The first ever Warhammer 40,000 Character Encyclopedia profiles more than 160 fan-favourite characters. Want to dive into the grim darkness of the far future, but don't know where to start? Look no further! From the stalwart commanders of the Space Marines to the mysterious Phoenix Lords of the Aeldari, explore the greatest warriors and leaders of each warring faction. Featuring...Hardback$3999Elsewhere:$4800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
My Very First Bible Stories
A beautifully illustrated collection of 14 favourite Bible stories, from Noah's Ark to the birth of Jesus. My Very First Bible Stories is perfect for parents and carers to share with young children beginning their journey of faith. Introducing a selection of favourite Bible stories with this meaningful book for toddlers. This illustrated board book contains 14 Bible stories that...Board book$1700Elsewhere:$1799Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
A Little Course in Crochet
Simply everything you need to know to learn something new. Ever wanted to learn how to crochet but don't know where to begin? Take the first step with A Little Course in Crochet, part of the popular series of learning guides from DK that explain everything and assume nothing. Learn at your own pace, in your own time, and in...Hardback$2600Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
My Very First Bible
A perfect introduction to 25 of the most beloved Bible stories. This illustrated first Bible story book for children is a wonderful collection of 25 favourite Bible stories re-told for a young audience. Accounts from the Old Testament and parables from the New Testament are covered in a clear and accessible way. From Creation to Noah's Ark, each story is...Hardback$2200Elsewhere:$2600Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Titanic
A picture-packed guide to the Titanic, from its incredible construction, catastrophic sinking, and lasting legacy. Travel back to the year 1912 and experience the tragic tale of the world's most famous and luxurious liner. This book tells the story of Titanic's fateful maiden voyage from Southampton, UK, to New York City. Learn what life was like for people on board...Hardback$2200Elsewhere:$2400Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
16% offMy First Words: Let's Get Talking
This busy board book with tabs gets little ones thinking, talking, and learning new words! Let's learn first words and start talking! Can you spot the fluffy teddy bear? Where is the fluttering butterfly? From toys and farm animals to shapes and things that go, babies and toddlers will love pointing to and naming the different objects. This is the...Board book$1600Elsewhere:$2100Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Explore
Maps to pore over, on subjects you'd never expect, compiled with explanatory diagrams and text to form an exciting new style of reference. Maps can help you find your way around more than just places, and knowledge can be shared using more than just words. Inside these pages, you will discover maps of science, history, nature, and space. Find a...Hardback$4100Elsewhere:$4800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
World History
A truly global view of history covering over 350 of the world's most important milestones and key turning points. An essential gift for every history buff, this boldly illustrated book maps out the events that have shaped our world—from the dawn of human civilisation to the present day. A comprehensive and accessible guide to the history of human civilisation, World...Hardback$4400Elsewhere:$4800Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
RHS Encyclopedia of Garden Design
Extensive design inspiration backed up with practical content, including step-by-step instructions on how to build garden structures and planting techniques. Do you long to create the garden of your dreams? Turn ideas into reality with this brand new edition of the classic design bible. Whatever the size of your garden space, and whether starting with a blank canvas or renewing...Hardback$6800Elsewhere:$7500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Eyewitness Encyclopedia of Animals
A next-generation animal encyclopedia bursting with breathtaking photography and packed with the topics kids love most. Experience the world's most incredible animals in one amazing book. Like the hugely successful Eyewitness series itself, Eyewitness Encyclopedia of Animals includes all the topics children most want to read about. The world's most amazing animals are here, from tiny ants to the mighty...Hardback$4800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Ancient Greece
A five-star guided tour of the ancient Greek civilisation. Embark upon a fascinating journey through ancient Greece - from its rise and fall to its lasting legacy throughout the Western world. Spanning more than 3,000 years, Ancient Greece explores the tumultuous history of this glorious empire in vivid detail - from its Minoan and Mycenaean origins to the apogee of...Hardback$6600Elsewhere:$7500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Super Simple Chemistry
Packed with all the core curriculum topics, this book for kids aged 12 and over is ideal for home and school learning. A fantastic aid for coursework, homework, and test revision, this completely comprehensive guide to Key Stages 3 and 4, and the entire GCSE curriculum, makes chemistry crystal clear and will have you exam-ready in no time. Each topic...Paperback$3200Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday
More from Arts & Culture
View all-
Dylan's PickBold Types
A tribute to 32 truly independent bookshops throughout Aotearoa New Zealand, from north of Auckland down to Dunedin, and coast to coast. Jane Ussher's photographs show every bookstore in its unique nature - including behind the counter, smoko rooms, the mess which tells the hardworking story behind the joy of matching books with customers. Jemma Moreira's careful editing has crafted...Hardback$5999Elsewhere:$7000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
New ReleaseI’ll Believe in Anything
From Jacob Tierney, the creator of Heated Rivalry, in partnership with Brendan Brady and Accent Aigu, comes I’ll Believe in Anything, an official and complete collection of annotated scripts for the biggest cultural sensation of the year, with all new exclusive behind-the-scenes content.Based on Rachel Reid’s blockbuster Game Changers book series, Heated Rivalry premiered on Crave and HBO in late 2025 and immediately took the world by storm. I’ll...Hardback$5499Elsewhere:$6000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
Home Again
Join rock-legend, former Shihad frontman and lead singer of The Adults, Jon Toogood in this unflinching and no-holds-barred memoir Home Again.This is more than a rock story. Toogood looks back on a 37-year career that helped define New Zealand rock music, and the personal cost that came with it. From a music-obsessed childhood in Wellington to the deafening roar of international stages, this...Paperback$2700Elsewhere:$3999Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
20% offThe Odyssey
Composed at the rosy-fingered dawn of world literature almost three millennia ago, The Odyssey is a poem about violence and the aftermath of war; about wealth, poverty and power; about marriage and family; about travellers, hospitality, and the yearning for home. This fresh, authoritative translation captures the beauty of this ancient poem as well as the drama of its narrative....Paperback$2400Elsewhere:$3599Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
21% offThe Iliad
When Emily Wilson's translation of The Odyssey appeared in 2017—revealing the ancient poem in a contemporary idiom that was "fresh, unpretentious and lean" (Madeline Miller, Washington Post)—critics lauded it as "a revelation" (Susan Chira, New York Times) and "a cultural landmark" (Charlotte Higgins, Guardian) that would forever change how Homer is read in English. Now Wilson has returned with an...Paperback$2600Elsewhere:$3799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
20% offDisney Moana: The Official Cookbook
Embark on a culinary adventure with Moana of Motunui with Pacific recipes inspired by Moana and Moana 2! After a long day of sailing to see how far you’ll go or keeping the demigod Maui out of trouble with Te Fiti, catch a break with the delicious dishes in Moana: The Official Cookbook! Featuring more than 50 recipes spanning the...Hardback$3600Elsewhere:$5299Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
New ReleaseA Life in Lyrics
Freddie Mercury was one of the greatest showmen of the twentieth century. With his unparalleled voice and searing on-stage energy, he was a great pretender, a killer queen and a champion of the world. But behind the glamour lived a musician and lyricist talented beyond measure, and the creative force behind one of the most culturally significant and musically diverse...Hardback$5000Elsewhere:$6500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
New ReleaseBirdlands
A rare, intimate journey into the wild islands where Aotearoa's birds live beyond the reach of most human lives. In the most remote outposts of Aotearoa, our islands are populated not with people, but with birds. From the storm-lashed Subantarctic Islands in the deep south to the scattered volcanic islands of Tikapa Moana/Hauraki Gulf in the north, Birdlands offers a...Hardback$4199Elsewhere:$5000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
21% offThis Angry Pen of Mine
This Angry Pen of Mine by Layne Staley invites you to dive into the untold creative world of Layne Staley, the legendary voice behind Alice in Chains. This extraordinary collection showcases his handwritten lyrics, deeply personal poetry, stunning original artwork, rare photos, fan tributes, and so much more. Step into the world of Layne Staley like never before. For the...Hardback$5800Elsewhere:$8999Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
The Artist's Way
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron is a transformative guidebook that has captivated millions, including luminaries such as Elizabeth Gilbert and Tim Ferriss. With its profound ability to inspire and elevate, this book invites readers to embark on an enriching creative journey, fostering a deeper connection to one's artistic process and sense of purpose. The heart of Cameron's groundbreaking programme...Paperback$3700Elsewhere:$4500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
New ReleaseBeautiful Chaos
Featuring five exclusive new poems, this stunning foil-embossed hardback edition is a collector's item and a gorgeous gift. The Instant Sunday Times Bestseller. Selected poems on motherhood from bestselling author and Instagram poet, Jessica Urlichs. 'Reading Jess's poems makes me feel like she's somehow reached into my own personal reflections and articulated them in a way I never could.' –...Hardback$3299Elsewhere:$4000Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday -
New Release
Split Enz
'My favourite band. Ever! And certainly the best dressed.' Sam Neill Split Enz were never designed to fit. Emerging from art school mischief in early-1970s New Zealand, they turned pop into surreal theatre: costume, character and melody colliding in a rock band that refused to behave like one. At the centre of that vision was Noel Crombie—percussionist, performer and the...Hardback$5199Elsewhere:$6500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips Tuesday
Why buy from us?
Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!
Service & Delivery
Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.
Auckland Bookstore
We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.
Our Gifting Service
Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.
Arts & Culture lists from the team
Explore our curated lists from our heroes to find your next read!
-
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listArts & Culture
Poetry of Aotearoa
Check out some of the amazing local talent we are spoilt with right here in Aotearoa.View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listArts & Culture
Poetry for Beginners - Where to Start
10 Books I'd recommend to someone new to reading poetry - a mix of old and new, all magical introductions to the...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listArts & Culture
Lizzy's Favourite Books of Poetry
If I could only have 10 poetry collections to survive on for the rest of my life, these are them. Or maybe...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listArts & Culture
Books to read for Women in Translation month!
August is Women in Translation month, but at any time of year it's worth checking out these incredible novels written by women...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Shirl's listArts & Culture
Inside the World of Film
Step behind the scenes of the world of filmmaking! Discover iconic directors and movie history of some of the world's memorable films.View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Shirl's listArts & Culture
Books to Celebrate NZ Music Month
New Zealand Music Month happens every May, it's a reminder that we have so many talented musicians, singer, songwriters here in Aotearoa....View the list
