Must-Read Books for Any Music Lover's Collection

Summer is on our doorstep and for me that means being able to spend the day on my balcony in downtown Toronto or at the lake reading outside. As a speed reader I tend to "binge" an author, reading their entire works when I find someone's writing I like. I get through a lot of books and I don't track my reading however I do pay attention when a novel really rocks my world. The following list of books are my favourites and continue to be re-read and enjoyed. I've given a very brief synopsis as well a suggestion of the type of person who would enjoy it. I hope that you find a new treasure in this list!

Those who want a deeper look: Self by Yann Martel

One of my favourite books of all time, this is a really good look at what it means to be human. What more can I say, you just have to give it a try. I discovered this after reading the Life of Pi and then all of Yann Martel's other books, this one in my opinion is the most engaging.

Musicians: Effortless Mastery by Kenny Werner

A must-read for musicians everywhere. Kenny Werner takes us behind the curtain and reveals how to play, practice and perform effortlessly. There is also some guided meditations built into this book to help you embody your own inner master.

Music Students: The Practice Revolution by Phillip Johnston

A funny look at practicing with many helpful tips, games and ideas to help music students achieve meaningful gains before their next lesson! Very good for students who have trouble finding ways to fill their practice time or who are struggling to improve and finding progress slow.

Parents: The Self-Driven Child by William Stixrud, and Ned Johnson

Such an important book for parents, encouraging them to let go of the steering wheel and let their children decide where to take their own lives. As a teacher, I always find the parent/child dynamic interesting and how that affects the child's motivation and interactions with me as another adult.

Music Teachers - The Music Lesson by Victor Wooten

A wild ride into what it means to learn music and to embody it. This music lesson is unlike any you've ever experienced! It really helped me to put my own lessons into perspective.

Music Lovers - The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom

A beautiful and sensual portrayal of a musician as he learns, grows and uses his music to touch people's hearts. This will rekindle your love for your instrument or listening to your favourite tunes performed with passion.

Perfectionists - The Perfect Wrong Note by William Westney

A great read for those struggling with perfectionism. William Westney explores the idea of a right and wrong note and how to unleash our creativity by throwing that idea out the window.

Seekers of Enlightenment: The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer A true revelation. Anyone looking to seek happiness or a stress free life should read this book. It has made my meditation practice much deeper as well as changed my perception of myself and the world around me. This books asks "who are you?" and probes the question with depth.

Mystery Lovers: The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton

From the first line to the last, this book is utterly shocking & disturbing. You won't be able to put it down... or escape. Also what I find interesting is that this author only ever wrote this one book!

Minimalists: The Girl Before by JP Delaney

Minimalists will revel in the description of the setting of "The Girl Before." Mystery and thriller buffs will enjoy the tingling sensation that perhaps not all is as perfect as it seems... This book is a great summer read along with JP Delaney's entire oeuvre.

Those with a tough upbringing: Lullabies for Little Criminals by Heather O'Neill

By Canadian author Heather O'Neill and set in Montreal, this story will captivate the hearts of anyone who reads it. It is a harrowing coming of age story that challenges the readers point of view about childhood and what it takes to survive.

That's that, my current favourite books! I hope that you found a few more to add to your summer reading list and that you enjoy the insight, laughter and tears that you will experience in these pages.

Happy Summer Everyone!