Orchestration for the theatre

Collinson's "orchestration for the Theatre" holds a very unique place in the pantheon of orchestration books, in that it applies specifically to application of orchestration to early 20th century operetta and music theatre. As it was written in 1941, the book addresses both "straight" orchestration and "dance" orchestration in a very insightful way, offering examples of passages scored in both styles for the student to examine. Collinson's dry humor pervades the book, making it an enjoyable read, as much as an orchestration book can be enjoyable to read. Mostly, the reader is impressed with Collinson's deft handling of the topic, no doubt the result of having enjoyed a busy career both as a conductor and orchestrater in the British musical theatre scene.