Meet the Musicians: From Prodigy (or Not) to Pro

When you see an orchestra perform it look like the people in it play effortlessly. This is not the case. They get to be that great through LOTS of practice! In Meet the Musicians we are introduced to 15 member if the New York Philharmonic. They tell us there stories of how they found out they really wanted to be professionals. The book included a helpful glossary and a list of resources for learining. Young musicians will gain useful advise from the pro in this book.

As a child did you ever hear your mother call "Time to come inside and practice?" You were having a great time playing outdoors, doing really fun things with your friends, and now you have sit inside on a piano bench and play those durn scales. Or, as a parent have you been frustrated because your offspring won't take time to practice when you're paying good money for flute, violin or tuba lessons? Most of us have been in one of those situations or both. Now Amy Nathan, author of "The Young Musician's survival Guide," gives us her latest book which proves we're not alone. "Meet the Musicians" is an upbeat, informative, up-close-and-personal look at 15 professional musicians all members of the New York Philharmonic. Many of them didn't like to practice when they were kids any more than we did. As adults and accomplished, disciplined musicians they offer excellent practice tips for both parents and children as well as sharing the paths they took to being part of a world class symphony orchestra. Beginning with Carter Brey, Cello and concluding with John Deak, Bass we find photos of these musicians as children, their favorite childhood activities, their educational backgrounds, the inside scoop on particular instruments, how they came to be members of the New York Philharmonic and brief biographical sketches. Young readers will easily relate to these musicians on many different levels. Violist Cynthia Phelps said, "When I'm on stage, I think I'm the luckiest person in the world, having such a good time doing what I love to do." She speaks for the musicians represented here, and perhaps for the musicians of tomorrow. Also included in "Meet the Musicians" is a helpful glossary and list of resources for those who wish to further pursue an interest in music. - Gail Cooke