A Sounding Mirror: Courage and Music in Our Time (Directions 21 Book)

Reviewer: Mr. F. L. Dunkin Wedd - This wonderful book was lent me by a friend. I couldn't bear to return it, so bought my own copy. I wanted to pencil the sections that I wanted to note particularly - and now have pencil marks on virtually every page! It's a fearless attempt to tackle a number of thorny issues, such as why is some music 'better' than others - to which Stumpf gives a convincing answer. He is uncompromising in his search for honesty and in his analysis of our responses to music; his prescriptions are tough and demanding - but offer rich rewards. And in the process of discussing music, Stumpf sheds enormous light on the link between music and spirituality, and offers fascinating comparisons between the two. The whole is enlightened by Stumpf's palpable honesty, integrity and humility. A truly outstanding book that will tell you things about yourself, your reactions to music and your spiritual nature that you have never examined.