While baryton sounds like the name of a sub-atomic particle, it actually refers to a little-known European stringed instrument that could be simultaneously plucked and bowed. Gartrell (Music,
Kingston University) presents the only comprehensive volume on the baryton, covering the instrument's invention at the beginning of the 17th century, its "golden age" during the Baroque Era
(during which even Haydn composed for the baryton), and its fall from favor the early 19th century. The book includes twenty photographs of surviving barytons and an archive of extant baryton
music. Annotation 穢2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
