Structure of the
Individual Recordings' Web Pages

Most recordings included in the G&S Discography have their own web pages. In some areas, where there is less to say about any one item (e.g. compilations of overtures), multiple recordings are listed on one page,

The presentation of each recording includes:

• Cast or artists
• Historical background
• Critical assessment
• Issue history
• Recording details (for 78rpm sets)

The historical background describes each recording's importance (or lack of importance) among other recordings of its type and era. Background material is also presented in the historical tour and is not necessarily repeated on all the recordings' individual pages.

Critical assessments are only one man's opinion, but I try to present a consensus view where possible. If a recording is controversial, I try to indicate as much. Where a recording isn't in my own collection, or where there's a divergence of opinion, I like to include other reviews. If you would like to add your opinion about a recording, please send me email.

For most of the highlights discs, I try to present a list of the included selections, if I know them. (This is not presented for most of the modern compilations, as I don't think it's interesting enough information to be worth typing in.)

Many G&S recordings have been issued many times in multiple formats. An issue history on each page presents this information in tabular format. Five columns of information are given:

• Date: The date an issue was published. In some cases, these are approximate.

• Label: The record label (e.g. HMV, Decca).

• Format: The format in which a recording was issued, such as 78rpm, 45rpm, Mono LP, Stereo LP, Cassette, CD, videocassette, or laserdisc

• Number: The catalog number.

• Comments: Any other material that was included on the same issue, or other information specific to the issue.

For 78rpm issues, the comments column will generally indicate the coupling of the sides (manual, slide auto, or drop auto). See the article on side coupling for further details.

For most sets that were originally issued on 78rpm records, there is an additional section called "Recording Details" which presents, for each side

• Matrix number (see discussion)
• Catalog number, if not part of a sequence
• Selection
• Artists (where known by side)
• Recording date (where known)