This book is the first survey of composers born before 1900 who wrote substantial musical works before age 16. The book provides a general overview of the subject to the present day, arguing that these works have frequently been marginalized, denigrated, or ignored without justification, and identifying possible reasons for this. It also includes an annotated checklist of well over 100 notable child composers, presenting a valuable and handy reference of these creators and their works before age 16.