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Guitar Zero: The Science of Becoming Musical at Any Age
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Guitar Zero: The Science of Becoming Musical at Any Age Paperback - 2012

by Gary Marcus

On the eve of his 40th birthday, a professor of no discernible musical talentlearns to play the guitar and investigates how anyone of any age might mastera new skill.


Summary

Just about every human being knows how to listen to music, but what does it take to make music? Is musicality something we are born with? Or a skill that anyone can develop at any time? If you don't start piano at the age of six, is there any hope? Is skill learning best left to children or can anyone reinvent him-or herself at any time?

For anyone who has ever set out to play a musical instrument—or wished that they could—Guitar Zero is an inspiring and fascinating look at the pursuit of music, the mechanics of the mind, and the surprising rewards that come from following one’s dreams. Gary Marcus, whom Steven Pinker describes as “one of the deepest thinkers in cognitive science,” debunks the popular theory that there is an innate musical instinct while challenging the idea that talent is only a myth. From deliberate and efficient practicing techniques to finding the right music teacher, Marcus translates his own experience—as well as reflections from world-renowned musicians—into practical advice for anyone hoping to become musical or learn any new skill.

From the publisher

Gary Marcus, described by the New York Times as “one of the country’s best known cognitive psychologists,” directs the Center for Language and Music at New York University, where he studies language, music, cognitive development, and evolution. His previous book, Kluge: The Haphazard Construction of the Human Mind, was a New York Times Editors’ Choice pick.

Details

  • Title Guitar Zero: The Science of Becoming Musical at Any Age
  • Author Gary Marcus
  • Binding Paperback
  • Edition Later Printing
  • Pages 288
  • Volumes 1
  • Language ENG
  • Publisher Penguin Books, New York, New York
  • Date 2012-12-24
  • Illustrated Yes
  • Features Bibliography, Glossary, Illustrated, Index, Price on Product - Canadian, Table of Contents
  • ISBN 9780143122784 / 0143122789
  • Weight 0.55 lbs (0.25 kg)
  • Dimensions 8.3 x 5.4 x 0.9 in (21.08 x 13.72 x 2.29 cm)
  • Ages 18 to UP years
  • Grade levels 13 - UP
  • Library of Congress subjects Music - Psychological aspects, Musical ability
  • Dewey Decimal Code 153.9

Media reviews

“An entertaining and enlightening memoir, filled with insight about music, learning, and the human mind, by Gary Marcus, one of the deepest thinkers in cognitive science.”

About the author

Gary Marcus, described by the New York Times as "one of the country's best known cognitive psychologists," directs the Center for Language and Music at New York University, where he studies language, music, cognitive development, and evolution. His previous book, Kluge: The Haphazard Construction of the Human Mind, was a New York Times Editors' Choice pick.
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