While browsing through the new releases at Naxos, I found that there are some pretty exciting classical albums scheduled to be released this month, however, one in particular caught my attention - Macabre Masterpieces. Maybe it's just me, but this perfect-for-Halloween album seems to be re-releasing a bit too soon. (It was originally released in 2005.) Macabre Masterpieces features scary classical works by the usual suspects Mussorgsky and Grieg, as well as those by Saint-Saens, Franck, Liszt, Berlioz and more.

Even though they don't get prime time air time, the classical music Grammy Awards are equally important. Because they are judged by their peers, these albums are especially interesting and worthy of adding to your classical music collection. Learn more about the five classical music albums nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Classical Album.

See a list of all 2010 Grammy nominated classical music albums.

We all know that buying the perfect gift for everyone on your Christmas list can be quite the challenge. And now, with only five days left until the big day, those of you still shopping will find yourselves hard-pressed for time. So to make the task easier for you, I've compiled a short and sweet list of gift cards that would make perfect gifts for any music lover on your list. Better yet, these gift cards can be purchased online and printed immediately or emailed to any email address!

239 years ago today, the great composer Ludwig van Beethoven was born! Beethoven is best known for his nine symphonies, but he's also famous for composing the Moonlight Sonata. Happy Birthday Beethoven!

More About Beethoven

• A Profile of Beethoven
• Recommended Beethoven CDs
• Beethoven's Music Used in Movies