Tone Deaf And All Thumbs?

An Invitation to Music-Making for Late Bloomers and Non-Prodigies

By Frank R. Wilson

VikingPenguin Inc., 1986

209 pages

Tone Deaf and All Thumbs is made to order for the adult amateur pianist. Author Frank Wilson, a neurologist by profession, was curious as he watched his young daughter progress at the piano and wondered how she could make her fingers go so fast. Being a doctor specializing in the workings of the brain and muscular system, Wilson’s curiosity led him to taking piano lessons himself. His pursuit of how the brain and muscular system contribute to making good music is thoroughly engaging.

Wilson says that everyone has an innate ability to make music because of the special nature of the human brain and the muscular system. He regards the body as a natural learner and discusses how we hear and what is special about musical hearing. He considers the biology of timing, rhythm, tempo, the visual system, the musical notation system and the problems they present to the brain.

In spite of the technical nature of the subject matter, this book is thoroughly enjoyable. Wilson treats the reader to his own triumphs and failures as he learns to play the piano. In addition to the fascinating subject matter, you will enjoy the author’s kinship as a fellow amateur pianist.

(Piano Forte, Vol 1, no.1)