What type of reference work is The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians?

The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians is a comprehensive reference published in multiple volumes that serves as an authoritative source for information on classical music and musicians. It is widely recognized for its extensive coverage of Western music, including detailed entries on composers, styles, instruments, and historical contexts. This reference work contains 20 volumes, making it a notable encyclopedic resource that provides in-depth scholarly articles and is used by music scholars, educators, and students alike.

The other options do not accurately describe The New Grove Dictionary. While it does provide valuable information about popular music and historical aspects of music, it is not specifically limited to just those genres, nor is it a database focused solely on popular music, periodical publications, or a single city-based initiative. Instead, its significance lies in its broad, volume-based format that encompasses a wide array of musical topics.