The benefits of music in our lives are increasingly acknowledged by researchers and scientist. As human beings, we have taken the existence of music for granted and rarely think critically about music and its purpose. Perhaps for this reason, such critical thinking about music is sometimes perceived as difficult. Understanding Music: Past and Present creates a roadmap from some of the earliest known origins of music to modern day. This linear approach allows the reader to trace the history and evolution of music through the ages. Understanding Music: Past and Present is designed to grow the reader's appreciation of music through improved understanding and listening skills, allowing the reader to develop his or her own informed opinions and express them.

Sponsored by eCore: eCore is a collaborative program that supports online core courses for students from twenty-five University System of Georgia colleges and universities. In an effort to decrease out-of-pocket costs for students in higher education, eCore Curriculum & Instruction has made great strides over the last few years to design, develop, and adopt Open Educational Resources into the curriculum offerings. eCore partners with the University of North Georgia Press and Affordable Learning Georgia to provide no-cost and low-cost textbooks and materials to its students. OERs are currently available in most of eCore's twenty-six course offerings, with a goal to implement OERs into 100% of the course offerings.