MAKING MUSIC FOR LIFE: REDISCOVER YOUR MUSICAL PASSION

MAKING MUSIC FOR LIFE: REDISCOVER YOUR MUSICAL PASSION
BY GAYLA M. MILLS
Dover Publications 9780486831718. Paperback, 224 pp., $16.95. (www.doverpublications.com)

Author Gayla Mills has written a book not about the music itself, but how music can become part of your life, reconnecting with music, and/or continuing what you may have already started. This book is not just for beginners, but also for part-time players and full-time professionals alike.

It begins with a look at music’s emotions, how it improves memory and thinking, and how it strengthens social bonds. It continues with the learning curve of your musical choices, practicing regimens and goals, preparing for and joining jams, and how to properly develop vocal skills, singing, and harmonizing. She discusses going to music camps which are for both the novice and veteran players, and how these camps continue one’s skills, but also helps with socializing and learning to play together. Thinking about forming a group or band? The book covers that, too. Are you going to gig for fun or are you looking to supplement your income from performing? From recording options, a home or professional studio, preparation, finalizing the CD, and sharing the final product—it’s all here. The book winds down with tips on playing smarter, singing smarter, helpful lifestyle changes, and learning from the pros.

Finally, she covers how to build a music community by teaching, tutoring, creating jam groups, and being a mentor to others. This book is a good read and many should find it interesting as they look into their own musical endeavors and/or careers. One drawback, there’s not much information on the songwriting process, nor does Mills cover any of the music licensing issues that musicians and performers must deal with. The book also includes a full list of reference material.BF