from the cover: "Dr Winternitz has devoted a lifetime to the study of musical instruments, and for this book he has selected some of the worlds most prized examples to discuss in detail, with full notes on techniques and materials used, and the instrument maker, if known. He examines fully the wider aspects of the interconnection of the instruments at any given age..". It's a wonderful book with beautiful photographs, both color and black and white. The classification section identifies 99 instruments that Dr. Winternitz discusses.