Music in Words was first published in 2000. The first edition was reprinted five times. In 2009, an American version of the book (with the same title) was published in New York by Oxford University Press. This resource was constructed for the fully revised second UK edition of the book, published in 2012. The resource is regularly updated.
Reviews
"... excellent resource. ... I cannot recommend this volume highly enough ... one of the most valuable books available in today's commercial market." – John Woodford, musicteachers.co.uk
"... a commendably thorough survey... Clearly expressed and logically ordered, Herbert's concise guide offers helpful, common-sense advice... it will serve as an invaluable reference tool... " – The Strad
"Well-written and easy to read... I can commend this volume to anyone considering undertaking further professional development in music. ... an accessible and thorough source of guidance... a useful reference tool." – Ensemble
"For the student and aspiring scholar, this is life-saving stuff... For its ideas and information, music students, performers and writers of all types should treasure this book... a most worthwhile reference work." – EPTA Piano Journal
"... should become the standard reference work for all serious writers about music!" – The Trombonist
"... presented with impeccable clarity." – Music Teacher
"... not only a valuable quick-reference compendium of information but also a lively and enjoyable book that triggers as well as offers ideas." – Australian Music Teacher Magazine
"... packed with practicalities, ideally suited to the needs of the undergraduate and postgraduate student... valuable reference book." – South African Music Teacher