It contains excerpts from the theoretical works by Praetorius, Niedy, Telemann, Mattheson, Heinichen, J. S. and C. P. E. Bach, Quantz, Padre Mattei; numerous examples, including complete pieces, from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, and many exercises for the student.

Hermann Keller is a musicologist who has held important posts as an organist and taught for many years at the Württemberg Conservatory of Music. His books include Thoroughbass Method and Phrasing and Articulation.