Young pianists pursuing a professional career face a barrage of questions; choices; and challenges. In this book; experienced teacher and performer Stewart Gordon offers a new and practical way to approach them by helping readers to plan strategically and build a secure and successful career from the ground up. For decades; Gordon has guided young pianists through the details of how to prepare musically; navigate their college years; and forge a career that will provide a livelihood. In this guide to beginning that musical career; Gordon has assembled the wisdom of decades of teaching: a fundamental body of information emerging pianists will rely on as they work toward their goals. His advice; focused on both mental and practical work; will enhance both motivation and security. Carefully balancing aspiration with reality and inspiration with organization; Gordon creates a blueprint for transforming dreams into achievement; and illustrates his points with examples drawn from the lives of famous musicians. The book also addresses many practical matters; such as developing keyboard technique; acquiring reading and memorizing skills; building repertoire; and balancing the demands of being a musician with living a full life. This volume is a valuable resource for both young pianists and their parents.
2014-01-15 2014-01-17File Name: B00HX52XB4
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Must read for musical theater buffsBy Kindle CustomerThis is a well-written; thorough biography. The writer interviewed Rodgers intimates researched archives and personal interviews and papers. While much is explained other things remain elusive which may be because much about Rodgers was elusive. While I admire the authors restraint I do wish he had been a little more thoughtful (thought-provoking?) because too much about the subject seems to escape him. Nevertheless; this is a very good biography by a careful writer and anyone interested in Rodgers or musical theater should read it.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Somewhere for Me; but not HereBy Wade L Bennett IIIThe book is written in a maudlin style with too much attention to the social circles in which Richard abd his wife circulated. I was put off from the beginning chapters when the author fawned over her information sources; a pack of socialites living above the fray. Mr. Rodgers autobiography had much more excitement and authenticity lent by his own personal friends and colleagues; and the events were portrayed with enthusiasm; realism; and the authenticity that lends depth to background material and really good stories. Secrests effort doesnt come close to the real thing.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Great Composer; Lousy PersonBy Howard WexlerBook was quite in-depth; maybe too much so. The author hits you over the head time and time again about Rodgers infidelities; his alcoholism; his aloofness. And it is a boring book for the most part. Relatively little on the collaborative part of writing for the theater; little on what went on creating many of the shows.Rodgers wife is seen as a shrew and the less about her; the better.This rating would have been just one-star except for the huge amount of pictures all throughout the book. That aspect was quite well done.
