First published 2012
Gary Marcus approaches his 40th birthday with a problem. As a cognitive psychologist, he understands how the brain works, but he has never shown any musical ability. He decides to learn guitar and turn himself into a test subject. Marcus wants to answer whether people must be born with musical talent or start learning as children. He takes Suzuki classes, studies with various teachers, and analyzes effective practice methods. His research combines personal experience with insights from accomplished musicians and scientific evidence about brain plasticity. Marcus examines whether musical ability comes from innate talent or dedicated training. He explores what makes practice effective and how adults can successfully learn instruments. The book challenges both the idea that musical talent is purely genetic and the notion that talent is entirely mythical. Marcus discovers that the journey of learning music itself provides lasting satisfaction, regardless of whether someone achieves professional-level skill.
Genres: biography, science, psychology, non-fiction, music, academic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: self-improvement, test-subject
288 pages · Penguin Press