Self-Transformation Through Music

What is it that makes sound become music? "…sound, in and of itself, has no meaning; it is simply sound. It is descriptive or evocative of nothing more than what is present in the heart and mind of the listener." But for those who are open to it, able to respond to it, the power of music to influence them is extraordinary. And this mysterious quality of harmony reacts alike on the composer, the musician, and the listener. In this self-help book of theory and practical exercises, the author explains how we can put music to good use in our daily life; and make it a part of our living experience; how to penetrate our soul so that we truly become one with the tones, rhythm, harmonics, the cadence of the music we are composing, or playing, or to which we are listening. This book is partly theory-ideas and thoughts about music-and it is partly suggestions on ways to test those ideas through actual personal experience. These two together make the only valid mode of learning. Reading the book thoroughly may provide some insight into the nature of music, of the musician, of the listener, and of the relationship existing between them. But without participating in the exercises, the concepts will remain intellectual ideas disconnected from your own reality. The exercises are designed to facilitate experiences that may bring you to a real knowing, a holistic understanding of the ideas.