The preparation of editions for performance and study is one of the most important activities and contributions of the music scholar to cultural life. Through accessible editions, previously unknown music enters the repertory, while well-known works receive fresh interpretations. This is the first book to offer an introduction to the methods of textual criticism and their application to music editing, as well as provide a history of the field, and a discussion of the issues and problems encountered.

In this volume, James Grier examines the central issues of music editing and develops a theoretical framework for a critical methodology, drawing examples from the early music repertory through contemporary works, including various genres from opera to the symphony. The author also examines the future of music editing and its application on CD-ROM and related electronic media.

The book follows the activities inherent in music editing, including the tasks of the editor, the nature of musical sources, and transcription. Grier also discusses the difficult decisions faced by the editor such as sources not associated with the composer and necessary editorial judgement.