L.A. Guitar Quartet, "Dances From Renaissance to Nutcracker"

What's more beautiful than a classical guitar? Four of 'em! the LAGQ plays classical music with flawless skill, as well as an infectious enthusiasm and sense of fun! Individually, each one of these guys is a world-class guitarist; together, their musical communication and interplay is nothing short of amazing. OK, you may have heard the Nutcracker Suite before, but trust me, you'll want to hear this version! I also highly recommend their other albums "For Thy Pleasure", and "Labyrinth."

W.A. Mathieu, "The Listening Book"

This is a book about appreciating music; it has the most refreshing approach I've ever encountered-it offers insights that can help anyone, musician or not, appreciate music in ways you've never thought of. Mathieu writes with humor and great compassion. He takes nothing for granted, no prior experience necessary- even the tone deaf are welcome! Yet his insights will be priceless to even the most experienced musicians. Mathieu helps us to realize that music is everywhere- in nature, in everyday activities, in your soul. He has the gift of eloquence, coupled with his obvious devotion to his subject. This book is a total joy; there is also a companion tape, available separately, in which he reads from the book and adds some piano interludes and examples.

Also check out these other excellent works by W.A. Mathieu:

"The Musical Life; What It Is And How To Live It"- an excellent follow-up to the Listening Book; a collection of essays on the nature of music and how to enjoy it everyday.
Harmonic Experience-Tonal Harmony from Its Natural Origins to Its Modern Expression - Mathieu's magnum opus, his great work- an in depth study of music, from its earliest origins to modern jazz. This book answers all the "why?" questions you've ever had about music, and does so in a way that welcomes everyone from the rank beginner to the most advanced student. This book sets a new standard for how music theory should be taught, and how music should be appreciated. Stunning.
Lakes and Streams- a beautiful CD of original solo piano pieces- meditative and thoughtful, without degenerating into the dull monotony that ruins so many "New-Age"-style albums.