To a Young Jazz Musician: Letters from the Road

I am neither particularly young, nor able to justifiably call myself a jazz musican and yet I found this book to be both enjoyable and enlightening. It is rich in wisdom and brimming over with the love Wynton Marsalis has for Jazz and Jazz Musicians. It contains much practical advice and covers his philosophy on music and life. The book comprises ten letters; each is amusing, stimulating, thought provoking and most engaging. It is particularly well written. He has a way with words that makes the reader feel a conversation is being conducted face to face. The letters cover defining a musical objective, retaining humility, being yourself, freedom vs rules in music, the importance of swing, avoiding arrogance, being a custodian of taste and morals, music as art, leadership and friendship. In my view his ideas are masterful and inspiring. It is not written for children, but rather is directed at teenage and young adult musicians. I recommend that those who enjoy this book also buy Wynton's book "Sweet Swing Blues on The Road".