Customer Reviews
Great book about music! 
2008-06-17
If you are about to buy a new music book to practice, still searching for some new things to learn, to improve your technique maybe, hold on a second and take a look at this one. With its totally different approach to music and understanding it, this will make you realize what you need really. I didn't know Victor Wooten was such a sweat person before he let us know what he has in his mind about music and about life by writing this book and sharing it to us. I thank him a lot! The book is so fluent and easy to understand even if your main language is not English. It is so sincere also. I'm sure you'll like it and it will be a great motivation for all your music life.
A Very Creative Way to Say It 2008-05-29
I've read and reviewed a book by another musician, Kenny Werner, called 'Effortless Mastery'. Some of the things covered in that book are touched upon in Victor's book, The Music Lesson. However, I must say that Victor has certainly found a way to show us the intangibles of music while demystifying so much of what holds we musicians back from really playing. His treatise on music brings to the fore important elements not usually emphasized in a practicing musician's learning. I found the book to be extremely practical while completely engrossing. Victor's decided approach to the subject at hand is unique, clever, and enjoyable. Much like his character in the book (Victor Wooten), I can't remember the last time I had so much fun learning the 'abc's' of music and more to the point, life itself!
One last comment about the book which I am surprised no one else has mentioned (at least if they did I missed it), and that is the proximity of one Jaco Pastorius to the Michael character. I find myself wanting to ask, is Michael Jaco? I am amazed that that question doesn't seem to be answered at all in the book's pages (again, unless I missed it). Then again, maybe it is so obvious, it is I who am a fool for bringing it up.
Either way, I highly recommend this book for a really great read.
Multifaceted talent 2008-05-25
Victor Wooten's superb showmanship has always impressed those fortunate enough to see him perform. His recordings entertain and inspire, and a conversation with him will give you new perspectives on unexpected subjects.
Now he's written a book that shares some of his unique insights on music and life. It's easy to read even if you are not a musician, and everyone can find something in it that speaks to them.
Music + Love = Victor Wooten 2008-05-22
Victor Wooten weaves a lyrical yarn that is simple and pure in language and deep in the beautiful mystery of the spirit. Not just about music, this book reminds me of Richard Bach's classic "Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah." A must for musicians and artists, and those who like to think and explore and dig a little deeper into their souls.
Download the podcast of Victor's interview with Bob Edwards on XM radio for a great companion experience.
Words of Wisom 2008-05-18
Great book. If you're looking for a music instructional book with tabs and other things this is NOT the book for you. But, if you're looking for a way to mature musically this is the book for you. Victor Wooten has really captured the essence of song in this book. A must read for the serious musician. It does not matter if you play bass, guitar, piano, cello... (you get the picture) this book will be an eye-opening experiance.
The Music Lesson 2008-07-22
Victor Wooten has succeeded in communicating a complete "how to" concerning what plagues most most musicians: the transfer of your emotional attachment to the music to the audience. Many musicians become so wrapped up in the technique they lose the ability to let the music flow and speak to them and through them to the audience. Victor explains how to utilize technique without losing spontaneous communication,the real essence of music, especially American Jazz. A read for every serious musician, and those who want to better understand how to feel the music.
For Musicians Seeking a Higher Purpose 2008-07-02
As a music major and literature lover, the first section (and usually only) I visit at the book store is the music section. I was actually searching for another book that was no where to be found, and decided to just browse around. I accidentally stubled upon this book that had only two copies of itself. It seemed intruguing, and then upon seeing its author I definatly had to give it a chance. While leaving the store, I was hoping my money was well spent.
The character Mr. Wooten learns from in this book would most likely call my stumble upon it a sure act of fate. I was meant to pick up this book and it has now given me a new, liberating outlook on my music and developed love for the art better than anything I had ever experienced. Any musician or music appreciator can read this book and change their ability and enjoyment for music perminantly. I have even created a method of incorporating the book with my practice routine. No, I have actually created a new routine based on this book-It is THAT life changing.
Your life and your music are a unity, the same entity, and should be treated as so. This book will teach you to do this naturally, as if you were born with this knowlege. You will connect with Music in the perfect way for the rest of your life, and if you care about her, you will read this book!
Richard Bach straps on a 4-string. 2008-06-24
Although he has shamelessly "borrowed" from Richard Bach's book, 'Illusions', Victor Wooten has written an inspiring reminder for us. He reminds us that what we wish to know we already know and that we only need to remember that. It's a very zen and easy read; also much funnier than I had imagined it would be. The sound of one hand slapping has never sounded so good.
If you can play better than Victor.....read it anyway! 2008-06-23
Regardless of age, education level, instrument(s) of choice, current musical proficiency or music style this book is well worth your time. If you do not play but love music it is still well worth your time. It is a fun, quick read that is loaded with ideas that open your mind and expand your perspective. If you are a seasoned musician in a rut this is your way out! If you are in a band that is not having fun and/or not making progress (or even if you are) get the entire band to read it and your next rehearsal will be unlike anything you have experienced! For $10 this one is a no brainer! It is virtually guaranteed to improve your playing!!
Learn how to be music... 2008-06-19
We already are music, but this book helps reintroduce us into being music that we already are. For music is a living breathing entity that's already thare and we are part of its conduit be it with our voice, guitar, bass, harmonica, etc. All music is a voice and we shouldn't judge a voice by its cover.
