Classical Music

[PoBoy321]

Now before anyone jumps on me for it, I know that the term "classical music" is a misuse of a term used to describe a specific period of music in the 1700s. Whatever, I'm misusing it, but if you need me to be clear, classical music stretches from the renaissance to the romantic period.

Anyway, I've always enjoyed classical music but never really felt like I had much of an appreciation for it. I never really got to know specific composers, styles, compositions, etc., but always wanted to be somewhat knowledgable. The problem, as I think is usually the problem with any endeavor, is that I have no idea where to start, so does anyone have any recommendations on books or websites to start to develop an appreciation for it?